Dialogue is the way forward, says Ladakh L-G to agitating groups

Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, on Wednesday emphasised that the resolution to any issue lies in dialogue and discussion, asserting that the authorities are open to engaging with the people of Ladakh on their concerns.

In an interview with The Tribune at Raj Niwas in Leh, Gupta described the people of Ladakh as “patriots,” adding that the administration is not their enemy.

“As a responsible person, I believe that solutions come through dialogue. Through discussions, we can explore possibilities for the future. The conversations should also focus on what serves the national interest and should not go against the unity of the country,” Gupta said, responding to a question about the Leh Apex Body’s recent decision to suspend talks with the Centre until their fresh demands are met — including a judicial probe into the September 24 firing incident.

Gupta said the Centre has always been receptive to Ladakhi concerns, tracing this openness back to the formation of the region’s hill councils. “There was a long-standing demand for Union Territory status, and it was fulfilled. There may be new demands in the future as well, and discussions can always take place around them,” he added.

Restoring normalcy

Speaking on the current situation in Leh, Gupta said that efforts are underway to restore normalcy after last week’s violent clashes.

“Tomorrow is October 2 — Gandhi Jayanti — and also Dussehra. I believe that after these events, life will return to normal, and we are working in that direction,” he said.

Reiterating that the administration is not an adversary to the people, Gupta said, “Those who died last week were our own children. We do not want such incidents to happen. We fully sympathise with the families of the deceased. If some individuals tried to disturb the peace, they should be held accountable. But the people of Ladakh have always stood with the administration and the government.”

He further said that in the two and a half months since he assumed charge as L-G, he has met and spoken to a wide cross-section of locals and that “dialogue with the community will continue.”

Anti-national allegations

Asked about concerns that Ladakhis are being labeled as “anti-nationals,” Gupta clarified, “No individual has been specifically called anti-national, but the situation has raised such questions — and someone may be behind that.”

Referring to the September 24 violence, he said, “There were incidents where weapons were snatched. Who were those people? Some appeared to have technical knowledge — like how to press a button or remove a magazine. These are serious concerns. We are investigating both sides of the incident, not just one.”

He also stated that “some people were used as pawns,” and added, “This should not have happened, but unfortunately, it did.”

Gupta assured that due process will be followed regarding those arrested in connection with the protests. “If someone is innocent, they will be released,” he said.

Development and jobs

Responding to concerns about development and funding, the L-G said there is no financial constraint in the Union Territory.

“At the time of undivided Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh had a budget of Rs 250 crore. Now, after becoming a UT, the budget is Rs 6,400 crore. There is no shortage of funds. We are actively working across all sectors, including tourism,” he said.

Land and local autonomy

Addressing fears that outsiders might buy land in Ladakh, Gupta assured locals that the authority to grant land rights rests with the autonomous Hill Councils. “We (UT administration) do not have that power. Land-related decisions are taken by the Hill Council, which is elected by the local people — not by us. So, what is there to fear?” he asked.

On private investments and employment, Gupta said, “If a large business group comes in, it will be the local population that benefits through employment. Norms already exist — skilled labor can be hired from outside, but the rest of the workforce will be from Ladakh.”

He also pointed out that government jobs in the UT already have about 95% reservation for locals.