LAB sets preconditions for talks

The ongoing unrest, which saw widespread violent protests September 24, has already dealt a fresh blow to Ladakh's tourism industry, which stakeholders say was just recovering from earlier setbacks this season

- PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

The Leh Apex Body (LAB), spearheading the agitation for statehood and constitutional safeguards in Ladakh, Monday announced suspension of talks with the Centre until a judicial inquiry into the police firing is constituted and all activists, including Sonam Wangchuk, are released unconditionally.

LAB chairman Thupstan Chhewang and co-chairman Chering Dorjay said the restoration of a "conducive atmosphere" in Ladakh was necessary before resuming dialogue.

Hardening its stand after the death of four protestors, the LAB said it would still rethink and join the talks October 6 if the demands of ordering a judicial probe headed by a retired Supreme Court judge and releasing all prisoners were met by the government.

"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," the two leaders said.

The boycott was announced hours after the fourth victim, a former army soldier, was cremated amid heavy security in the curfew-bound capital of Ladakh.

Late in the evening, the Home Ministry came out with a brief statement saying the government has always been open to dialogues on Ladakh matters with LAB and KDA.