Ladakh wants statehood for land, culture, and job protection. Understand the key differences between a state and a Union Territory.
1. Why are the people of Ladakh demanding full statehood?
The people of Ladakh are demanding full statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution for several reasons. The main reasons behind this demand are:
Political empowerment and identity
The people of Ladakh believe that even with Union Territory status, their political voice and decision-making power remain limited. A full statehood would allow them to elect their own legislature and government, allowing them to better voice their issues and formulate policies tailored to their needs.
Security of land, culture and employment
This is the most important demand. The people of Ladakh fear that outsiders will come and dominate their land, culture, and identity. Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule will protect these things.
- Land: Under the Sixth Schedule, Ladakhis will have full rights over their land. This will prevent outsiders from purchasing or trading land there.
- Culture and Identity: Ladakh has a unique Buddhist and Muslim culture. They fear that this culture may be lost in the name of development and tourism. The Sixth Schedule will provide legal protection for this culture.
- Employment: They fear that outsiders will come and take over employment opportunities. The provisions of the Sixth Schedule will help them secure jobs for their people.
Pace of Development
The people of Ladakh believe that despite becoming a Union Territory, the pace of development is very slow. They believe that if they were a full-fledged state, they would be able to better implement development plans according to their needs.
The people of Ladakh believe that Union Territory status is insufficient because it does not protect their land and identity from outsiders. Therefore, they are demanding full statehood as well as constitutional protection under the Sixth Schedule to secure their future.
2. Difference between State and Union Territory
Union Territories
Union Territories are directly under the control of the Central Government (i.e., the Government of India). They are administered through an administrator (such as a Lieutenant Governor or Chief Commissioner) appointed directly by the President.
- Governance: The Central Government exercises direct control.
- Government: Some Union Territories (such as Delhi and Puducherry) have elected legislatures and Chief Ministers, but they do not have full powers like states. They must seek the Central Government's approval on many matters.
- Police and Law and Order: Important subjects such as police and law and order are often under the Central Government (such as in Delhi).
Full State
A full state has its own elected government with complete autonomy to legislate and govern in accordance with the Constitution.
- Governance: The state has its own elected government (Chief Minister and Council of Ministers) that controls the affairs of the state.
- Government: The state government has full authority over matters such as lawmaking, police, health, education, and agriculture.
- Autonomy: The central government does not directly interfere in the affairs of the states, except in certain special circumstances.
Key Differences Table between State and Union Territory
| Characteristics | Full State | Union Territory |
|---|---|---|
| Administration | Elected State Government (Chief Minister) | Administrator appointed by the Central Government (Lieutenant Governor) |
| Legislature | Assembly with full powers | Assembly with limited powers (in some) |
| Police | Under the control of the State Government | Under the control of the Central Government (often) |
| Autonomy | High degree of political autonomy | Dependent on the central government |
| Examples | Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu | Delhi, Puducherry, Chandigarh, Ladakh |
3. What is the problem in giving full statehood to Ladakh?
There are many challenges and problems in granting full statehood to Ladakh, which complicates the process.
Population and Size
- Low Population: Ladakh has a very small population (approximately 2.74 lakh according to the 2011 census). It is not economically viable to create a full-fledged state government, including a legislative assembly, a chief minister, and a complete administrative structure, for such a small population.
- Large Geographic Area: Ladakh is India's largest union territory, but its population is scattered and the terrain is difficult. Effective administration across the region can be difficult.
Economic Challenges
- Limited Revenue Sources: Ladakh's economy relies primarily on tourism. Agricultural and industrial opportunities are limited, leaving the state with very little revenue. Upon becoming a full-fledged state, Ladakh will have to cover its own expenses, which will be difficult.
- Central Dependence: Even after becoming a full-fledged state, Ladakh will have to rely heavily on central government financial assistance for its development.
Political and Administrative Problems
- Administrative Structure: A new administrative structure, including a separate secretariat, police force, and other departments, will need to be established for a full-fledged state. This will require significant expenditure and human resources.
- Local Disputes: Ladakh already faces political and social differences between the Leh and Kargil districts. Leh, which is Buddhist-majority, has often demanded a separate identity from Kargil, which is Muslim-majority. A full-fledged state could further create conflicts between the two regions over the division of power and resources.
- Border dispute with China: Ladakh shares a border with China. In this sensitive region, direct control by the central government is crucial from strategic and security perspectives. A full-fledged state has limited authority in such matters.
Given all these factors, granting Ladakh full statehood presents numerous practical, economic, and strategic challenges. This is why the government has, for the time being, retained the status of a Union Territory, ensuring that both its development and security remain under the direct control of the central government.
About the Author:
Arjit Kumar
