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24 June 2026

Ladakh democratic guarantees protest

The topic involves significant constitutional and governance issues regarding the Sixth Schedule, statehood, and federal relations, which are core themes for GS2.

1 min read Day 2 of 4 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Ladakh districts of Leh and Kargil observed a shutdown protesting the Centre's failure to release accurate minutes of the May 22 meeting.
  • Key civil society groups involved include the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA).
  • Demands of the region include grant of Statehood, inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, and protection of land and resources.
  • Disputed points in the meeting minutes include the omission of safeguards under Article 371 and the specific powers of a proposed elected legislative body.
  • The Centre reportedly offered constitutional safeguards under Article 371 and a legislative body with a Chief Minister, rather than the Sixth Schedule.
  • Local concerns include the impact of large-scale investments, luxury tourism, and the introduction of new excise policies without adequate public consultation.

Part of a longer story

This is day 2 of 4 in Ladakh statehood and constitutional protection movement, which has been running since 21 June 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the significance of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution in protecting the socio-cultural and economic interests of tribal regions in India. How do these provisions differ from the protections offered under Article 371? 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The demand for greater democratic decentralization and constitutional safeguards in Union Territories reflects the tension between administrative control and local aspirations. Analyze the role of legislative bodies in Union Territories and the challenges in balancing developmental goals with the preservation of regional identity. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution provides for the administration of tribal areas in which of the following states?