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Ladakh Drafts Unique Constitutional Safeguard Framework Under Article 371
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News18•22-09-2026, 14:15
Ladakh Drafts Unique Constitutional Safeguard Framework Under Article 371
- •Ladakh is developing a new constitutional safeguard framework under Article 371, tailored to the Union Territory's specific needs and aspirations.
- •The proposed framework, a unique model not found elsewhere in India, will be discussed in an upcoming meeting between Ladakh representatives and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- •The Centre suggests inserting a new Chapter K under Article 371 to provide special protections for Ladakh's land, employment, culture, environment, and natural resources.
- •Key suggestions from Centre-Ladakh talks include direct elections for a proposed UT-level body, with further parliamentary steps to follow consensus on the framework.
- •Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra highlighted administrative initiatives, including strengthened district structures, upgraded hospitals, and progress towards Panchayat elections.
Key Questions Answered
The Centre has proposed inserting a new chapter K under Article 371 of the Constitution to provide special constitutional safeguards to Ladakh covering land, employment, culture, environment, and natural resources.
The draft of the new framework is scheduled to be discussed in the upcoming meeting between Ladakh representatives and the Ministry of Home Affairs in the first week of October.
Discussions have highlighted that direct elections to a proposed Union Territory-level body should be implemented, granting it specific legislative, executive, and financial powers.
