LAB halts talks demanding probe; govt says doors open for dialogue

The Leh Apex Body (LAB), spearheading the agitation for statehood and constitutional safeguards in Ladakh, on Monday suspended talks with the Centre after four protestors were killed in police firing, demanding a judicial inquiry and release of all detainees, including activist Sonam Wangchuk, even as the Union Home Ministry reiterated its openness to dialogue and highlighted past gains from negotiations, such as enhanced reservations, women’s representation in local councils, and ongoing recruitment drives.

- NARESH BISWANI

The announcement came against the backdrop of widespread unrest that has gripped the Union Territory since violent protests on September 24, which left four people dead and more than two dozen injured. The fourth victim, a former army soldier, was cremated earlier in the day under heavy security in Leh, where curfew remains in force.

LAB chairman Thupstan Chhewang and co-chairman Chering Dorjay said dialogue could not continue in the prevailing situation. “We will urge the Home Ministry and the UT administration to take steps to address the atmosphere of fear, grief and anger that is there,” they said, calling for restoration of a “conducive atmosphere” before resuming discussions.

The LAB has set two clear conditions: a judicial probe headed by a retired Supreme Court judge into the September 24 violence and the unconditional release of all detainees, including Wangchuk, who has been held under the National Security Act (NSA). All pending cases against protestors must also be revoked, the leaders said.

Chhewang, a two-time former Member of Parliament, described the decision to suspend talks as unanimous. “As long as peace is not restored and a conducive atmosphere is not created, we will not participate in any talks,” he said. Dorjay added that unless “right steps” are taken before October 6, LAB would not reconsider its decision to return to the table.