Himalayan Express

Category: Ladakh

  • 7 dead, 21 injured as school bus plunges into gorge in Leh

    7 dead, 21 injured as school bus plunges into gorge in Leh

    Kargil, Aug 23: At least seven people died and 21 others sustained injuries, some of them critically when a school bus skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge near the Durbak area in the Leh district of Ladakh on Thursday.

    The ill-fated school bus carrying staff and three children was on its way when the driver lost control over the wheel while initiating a curve at Durbak and fell into a deep gorge at Durbak, resulting in the on-the-spot death of six persons and injuries to 22 persons.

    Soon after the accident, the Police, Army, and locals launched a major rescue operation and shifted the injured to a nearby health facility where from they were shifted to Leh, officials said.

    Deputy Commissioner Leh Santosh Sukhadev said that the accident occurred when a bus of School Lamdon carrying around 25 staff members including the driver besides three children met with an accident at Durbak.

    He said that the bus carrying the staff had gone to attend a marriage function of one of the staffers at Durbak.

    “Six people died on the spot and one among the seriously injured persons succumbed while arriving at the hospital,” the DC Leh said.

    He said that the other injured had been shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment.

    Sukhdev said three helicopters were pressed into service, two from the Indian Air Force (IAF) and one from the Army, to shift the injured to hospitals for treatment.

    The Police have registered a case to ascertain the cause of the accident.

    Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brig (Retd) B D Mishra expressed grief over the accident and directed the administration to provide all possible assistance to the injured.

    “I am deeply saddened and grieved to hear about the loss of seven lives of our dear Ladakhi citizens and the injury to 21 others in a tragic accident near Durbuk. My deep condolences go to the bereaved families. I wish a speedy recovery of all the injured,” he said. “I direct the Ladakh administration to render all possible help to the affected people at the earliest and immediately arrange helicopter evacuation of those seriously injured for specialised treatment.”

    Chief Executive Councillor Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LADHC) Kargil, Muhammad Jaffar Akhoon also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident.

    “I am deeply saddened by the excruciating news of the tragic accident near Durbuk, Leh. I extend my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident. Hope for the swift and complete recovery of the injured. The role of the Army, Police, and civil administration teams has remained exemplary. They promptly responded and provided immediate assistance. May the departed souls rest in peace, and may their loved ones find strength during this difficult time,” he said.

    Advisor to LG Ladakh, Pawan Kotwal, Member of Parliament Ladakh, Muhammad Haneefa Jan, and prominent social and political activist Sajad Hussain Kargil also expressed grief over the accident.

     

  • Newly Elected Ladakh MP Advocates for Sixth Schedule and Statehood

    Newly Elected Ladakh MP Advocates for Sixth Schedule and Statehood

    New Delhi, June 13: Newly elected Member of Parliament, Mohammad Haneefa Jan, has reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the restoration of statehood. Jan, who contested as an independent candidate after resigning from the National Conference, emphasized that his priority lies in addressing the fundamental rights of his constituency.

    Speaking exclusively to a news agency, Jan highlighted the unique nature of the recent elections in Ladakh, emphasizing that voters focused solely on issues rather than traditional religious or regional affiliations. The demand for safeguards under the Sixth Schedule and the restoration of statehood has been a recurrent theme in the region since Ladakh was separated from Jammu and Kashmir to become a Union Territory in 2019 following the abrogation of Article 370.

    The four-point agenda proposed by the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, including demands for a separate public service commission, two separate Lok Sabha seats, and other administrative reforms, has garnered widespread support among the populace. However, these demands were rejected by the Home Ministry just before the elections, sparking protests led by prominent figures like climate activist Sonam Wangchuk.

    Despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) replacing sitting MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal with Tashi Gyalson, the chairman of the Leh Autonomous Hill Development Council, during the elections, the party faced disappointment as it could only secure the third position. Congress candidate Tsering Namgyal, leader of the opposition in the LAHDC, finished second.

    Jan emphasized the discontent among Ladakhis regarding the Union Territory setup, citing concerns over future employment prospects and the uncertainty surrounding educational opportunities. He stressed that nearly 80% of Ladakh’s population expressed dissatisfaction with the status quo through their votes.

    In his efforts to address these concerns, Jan recently met with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to discuss the demands of the Ladakhi people. He intends to approach leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the INDIA bloc to garner support for his cause. However, he reiterated his commitment to remaining an independent lawmaker, stating that he would continue to represent the interests of Ladakh through the Ladakh Democratic Alliance.

    Jan emphasized that achieving statehood is crucial for Ladakhis to exercise their sovereignty and take autonomous decisions. Additionally, he highlighted pressing issues such as unemployment, the need for infrastructure development, and restoring the old pension scheme.

    Regarding his predecessor, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, Jan remarked that the former MP was “shown the door” by his own party, referencing the public’s response to Namgyal’s performance and statements in Parliament.

    As Ladakh’s representative in the Indian Parliament, Jan seeks to address the aspirations and concerns of his constituents, advocating for their rights and socio-economic development on the national stage.

    For further updates, stay connected with us.

  • **NCC Cadets Set Off on Mount Kang Yatse-II Expedition, Flagged Off by DG NCC**

    **NCC Cadets Set Off on Mount Kang Yatse-II Expedition, Flagged Off by DG NCC**

    The National Cadet Corps (NCC) boys and girls mountaineering expedition to Mount Kang Yatse-II peak was ceremoniously flagged off by DG NCC Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh from New Delhi today.

    Situated in the Ladakh region at an altitude of 6,250m/20,505ft, Mount Kang Yatse-II is the destination for the 87th NCC Cadets mountaineering expedition since 1970.

    The expedition team comprises five Officers, 17 Permanent Instructors, and 24 Cadets (12 Boys & 12 Girls) from various NCC Directorates. Their mission is to attempt the summit of Mt Kang Yatse-II by the end of June 2024.

    DG NCC expressed his best wishes to the team, underscoring the pivotal role of the NCC in youth development and the opportunities it provides for cadets to engage in diverse adventure activities. He urged the cadets to confront the challenges of the expedition with composure, courage, professionalism, and an indomitable spirit.

     

  • Ladakh’s Inaugural UT Election Sees 69.62% Turnout; Kargil Leads with 9% Margin Over Leh

    Ladakh’s Inaugural UT Election Sees 69.62% Turnout; Kargil Leads with 9% Margin Over Leh

    In a historic milestone for the newly minted Union Territory of Ladakh, its inaugural parliamentary election witnessed an impressive turnout of 69.62%. This significant exercise in democracy saw voters across the region, encompassing Leh and Kargil districts, exercise their franchise for the lone parliamentary seat.

    Kargil district, predominantly inhabited by Shia Muslims, emerged as a voting powerhouse, boasting a turnout of 74%, overshadowing Leh’s 64.9% participation, highlighting a nuanced electoral landscape within the UT.

    The contest for the Ladakh Lok Sabha seat featured a triangular battle, with Tashi Gyalson (BJP), Tsering Namgyal (Congress), and Mohammad Haneefa Jan (Independent) vying for victory. Despite the logistical challenges of transporting EVMs from remote polling stations, authorities ensured the integrity of the voting process.

    The decline in voter turnout since 2004, when Ladakh was part of Jammu and Kashmir, underscores the evolving political dynamics of the region. However, the peaceful conduct of this landmark election signifies a steadfast commitment to democratic principles amidst changing times.

    Returning Officer Santosh Sukhdeve and SP Shruti Arora lauded the peaceful polling process, addressing minor incidents with prompt action. The resilience of Ladakh’s electorate was evident as voters, including women and first-time voters, braved long queues to cast their ballots.

    The massive geographical expanse of Ladakh, spanning over 59,000 square kilometers, posed logistical challenges, yet polling stations in even the most remote areas witnessed enthusiastic turnout. Paramilitary forces ensured the smooth conduct of elections, with no reports of untoward incidents.

    Lieutenant Governor Brig (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) emphasized the importance of free and fair elections in fostering democracy, urging continued growth and opportunities for Ladakh’s youth.

    Amidst the fervor of democracy, well-known activist Sonam Wangchuk highlighted the significance of voter participation, urging citizens to honor the sacrifices of past leaders by exercising their democratic rights.

    Looking ahead, Ladakh’s electoral landscape promises continued vibrancy, with the hopes and aspirations of its diverse populace shaping the trajectory of its political future. As the region awaits the results, the spirit of democracy burns bright, illuminating Ladakh’s journey as a fledgling Union Territory.

  • Ladakh’s Leh-Manali National Highway Reopens to Traffic After 5 Months

    Ladakh’s Leh-Manali National Highway Reopens to Traffic After 5 Months

    Leh, Apr 24 : After nearly five months of closure due to heavy snowfall during winter, the Border Roads Organisation has reopened the 428-km Leh-Manali National Highway for vehicular traffic, officials announced on Wednesday. The vital highway, serving as an alternate route linking the Union Territory of Ladakh with the rest of the country via Himachal Pradesh, was shut down in November as snow accumulated. A defence spokesperson based in Leh confirmed that the road was now accessible to vehicles following the successful snow clearance operation carried out by the BRO. “The snow clearance was conducted by the 111 Road Construction Company (RCC) and 753 Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) under Project HIMANK in Ladakh, and 70 RCC and 38 BRTF under Project Deepak in Himachal Pradesh,” the spokesperson stated. “This complex operation involved two teams clearing snow simultaneously from opposite ends. With skilled manpower and advanced machinery, Project Deepak focused on the Manali to Sarchu section, while Project Himank cleared the highway from Leh to Sarchu,” the spokesperson elaborated. He noted that the teams braved severe weather conditions, including snowstorms and challenging terrains at high altitudes, to clear the highway and traverse four significant passes: Baralacha La (15,910 ft), Nakee La (15,547 ft), Lachung La (16,616 ft), and Tanglang La (17,482 ft).

  • Congress Criticizes PM Modi, Urges Him to Fulfill Promise of Granting Statehood to Ladakh

    Congress Criticizes PM Modi, Urges Him to Fulfill Promise of Granting Statehood to Ladakh

    New Delhi, Mar 21: The Congress on Thursday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi if he has any intention of upholding his “guarantee” to the people of Ladakh on grant of statehood and self governance.
    In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said “since the prime minister has put off his Bhutan photo-ops today, we hope he can devote some time to Ladakh”.
    Modi’s visit to Bhutan, which was scheduled for Thursday, has been rescheduled due to inclement weather conditions in the Himalayan nation.
    “Since February 3rd, when there was a complete shutdown of Ladakh by the locals, the people of Ladakh have been protesting in large numbers against the Modi Sarkar’s heavy handed ‘rule by bureaucracy,’ which has made a mockery of local elected institutions,” he said.
    The courageous environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk has brought the agony of the people of Ladakh to national and global attention, he noted.
    Posing a set of four questions the people of Ladakh have for the PM, the Congress leader said the people of Ladakh are demanding constitutional safeguards for the Union Territory of Ladakh, including statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
    Incidentally, he said, the BJP had promised Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule in its manifesto for the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections and the 2020 Ladakh Hill Council Polls.
    “Does the Prime Minister have any intention of upholding his “Modi ki guarantee?” If not, why did he make the promise in the first place? Ten years after he first took office, why is this issue still pending,” he asked.
    Ramesh also said that since the dissolution of the BJP-PDP Government in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in 2018, the people of Ladakh have had no representative government at the state-level.
    “On August 5, 2019, by converting Ladakh into a separate Union Territory without a legislative assembly, the Modi Sarkar closed the possibilities of any self-government for the people of Ladakh.
    “What vision did the Prime Minister have for Ladakh when he declared it a separate Union Territory? Were the people of Ladakh ever consulted during the development of this vision,” he asked.
    Ramesh also alleged that under Prime Minister Modi’s governance, “India has lost prime pasture land in the Changthang plains in the north of Ladakh to Chinese encroachment. In addition to a national security crisis, this is also a serious socio-economic issue for the nomads of Ladakh”.
    “The prime minister, however, gave a clean chit to China on June 19th, 2020, at the all-party meet on China, when he declared that not a single Chinese soldier had crossed over into Indian territory,” he said, asking whether the people of Ladakh are lying while claiming that their lands had been encroached upon by the Chinese PLA.
    Ramesh claimed that the proposed Ladakh Industrial Land Allotment Policy 2023 has suggested single-window clearance committees that have only government officials and an industry representative.
    There are no Council members, civil society groups, and panchayat representatives in these committees, he claimed.
    “The document does not even lay out the environmental or cultural criteria for considering an industrial project, nor does it provide for any public consultation.
    “In a sensitive ecosystem such as Ladakh, in a region populated by nomadic tribes and other sensitive demographic groups, what is the cynical motive that underlines this proposed Land Allotment Policy? Is it yet another attempt by the Prime Minister to favour his industrialist friends at the cost of the people,” Ramesh asked, using the hashtag “#ChuppiTodoPradhanMantriji”. (Agencies)

  • Kargil observe complete bandh, massive protest rally taken out in Leh on KDA, LAB call

    Kargil, Feb 03: A complete bandh is being observed in Kargil district while as a massive protest rally was taken out in Leh district of Ladakh union territory on Saturday on the call of
    Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and Leh Apex Body (LAB), two conglomerate representing various political, social, religious, student organizations in Ladakh, who had called for a complete ‘Kargil bandh’ and ‘Leh Chalo’ on February 03, in support of their four demands including Statehood for Ladakh, Constitutional Safeguards under Sixth Schedule, PSC for Ladakh and early job recruitment process and two separate parliament seats for Leh and Kargil.

    Both LAB and KDA held a meeting in Kargil and Leh and announced bandh in the entire Ladakh region on February 03.

  • NC-Congress Alliance Views LAHDC-Kargil Poll Results as a Referendum Against Article 370 Abrogation

    NC-Congress Alliance Views LAHDC-Kargil Poll Results as a Referendum Against Article 370 Abrogation

    Kargil (Ladakh), October 9: The National Conference (NC) and Congress alliance, following their victory in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC)-Kargil elections, has characterized the results as a “referendum” against the central government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir.

    In the LAHDC-Kargil elections, jointly contested by the NC and Congress, they secured 22 out of 26 seats, as announced on Sunday. This election marked the first since Ladakh was designated as a Union Territory after the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019.

    NC district president in Kargil, Hanifa Jan, expressed that this outcome indeed signifies a referendum, underscoring the people of Kargil’s opposition to the changes. She emphasized the importance of restoring the democratic system in Ladakh and suggested that this could involve either granting full-fledged statehood to Ladakh or reinstating its previous position within Jammu and Kashmir.

    Jan highlighted the desire of Kargil’s residents to break free from what they perceive as bureaucratic constraints under the lieutenant governor’s administration. She criticized the Indian government’s unilateral decisions in August 2019 and described the election results as a clear referendum against those choices.

    The alliance, which effectively secured 24 seats, including two won by independents aligned with their ideologies, voiced its strong opposition to the decisions taken in August 2019 and the erosion of democracy in the region. Senior Congress leader Issa Ali Shah reaffirmed the people of Kargil’s resistance to the abrogation of Article 370, asserting that the BJP had no significant role in Kargil, where the majority preferred unity with Jammu and Kashmir.

    Regarding the alliance’s future plans, Hanifa Jan emphasized that it extends beyond the council elections, aiming to keep Kargil united. The alliance intends to collaborate in future parliamentary elections, advocating for a secular candidate who can represent the interests of the region, in contrast to the current MP, whom they view as aligned with BJP-RSS agendas and lacking in service to the people of Ladakh.

    The LAHDC-Kargil elections held on October 4 saw the NC secure 12 seats, the Congress win 10, the BJP claim two, and two independent candidates emerge victorious. The administration nominates four members with voting rights to the 30-member council. The NC and Congress, although announcing a pre-poll alliance, fielded 17 and 22 candidates, respectively, primarily focusing on areas with competitive contests against the BJP.

  • NC-Congress Alliance Secures 19 Seats in LAHDC Election Following Article 370 Abrogation

    NC-Congress Alliance Secures 19 Seats in LAHDC Election Following Article 370 Abrogation

    Srinagar : In the latest developments from Srinagar on October 8th, the National Conference (NC) and Congress alliance have achieved a decisive victory in the 5th general elections of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC). The NC emerged as the single largest party, securing 11 seats, while the Congress secured 8 seats. Of the 30-member council, results for 24 seats have been declared, with counting still ongoing for the remaining seats, according to officials.

    The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) managed to secure two seats, while three independent candidates were also declared victorious in the elections. However, the Aam Aadmi Party failed to secure any seats in the LAHDC-K Council.

    Among the notable victories, NC candidate Abdul Wahid won from the Bhimbhat Constituency with a narrow margin of 52 votes, Punchok Tashi secured a win from the Padum Constituency with a margin of 54 votes, and Manzoor Ul Husain emerged victorious from the Yourbaltak Constituency with a margin of 90 votes.

    Meanwhile, Congress candidate Abdul Hadi won the Tai-Suru Constituency with a margin of 261 votes, and Abdul Samad secured victory from the Ranbirpora-Drass Constituency with a margin of 575 votes.

    In a closely contested race, BJP candidate Padma Dorjey emerged as the winner in the Stakchay Khangral Constituency, defeating Syed Hassan of Congress and Ghulam Hussain of NC with a margin of 177 votes.

    It’s worth noting that these elections mark the first-ever civic elections in the Kargil district since Ladakh became a separate Union Territory on August 5, 2019, following the abrogation of Article 370. In this election, the BJP faced a united opposition consisting of the Congress and National Conference on 26 out of the 30 council seats. A total of 85 candidates participated in the polls, with 22 representing Congress, 17 from the NC, 17 from the BJP, four from the Aam Aadmi Party, and 24 running as independent candidates.

  • Ladakh Administration Commends Kargil Residents for Impressive Participation in LAHDC-K Election

    Ladakh Administration Commends Kargil Residents for Impressive Participation in LAHDC-K Election

    Srinagar, October 5, 2023: The Ladakh Union Territory administration extends its congratulations to the residents of Kargil for their robust participation in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council-Kargil (LAHDC-K) election, which witnessed an impressive 77.61 percent voter turnout on Wednesday.

    Addressing the media, Deputy Commissioner of Kargil, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, expressed his admiration for the people of Kargil who actively engaged in the LAHDC-K election, exercising their franchise at a remarkable rate of 77.61 percent.

    This historic civic election in Kargil district marked the first of its kind since Ladakh became a separate Union Territory on August 5, 2019, following the reorganization of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir.

    In this election, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) faced a united opposition comprising the Congress and National Conference in 26 out of the 30 Council seats. A total of 85 candidates contested, with 22 representing the Congress, 17 from the National Conference, 17 from the BJP, four from the Aam Aadmi Party, and 24 as Independent candidates.

    The counting of votes is scheduled for October 8, ensuring a transparent process, as stated by Deputy Commissioner Suse.

    He noted that this turnout was likely one of the highest in the country, highlighting the enthusiasm of the voters who patiently waited outside polling stations from early morning, even in the cold Zanaskar area.

    Suse likened elections to a festival, emphasizing the celebratory spirit displayed by the people of Kargil. He also praised the comprehensive security arrangements made to ensure a smooth electoral process.

    While some polling booths experienced brief interruptions due to Automatic Voting Machine (AVM) glitches, these were promptly resolved by zonal officers. In the remote Akue area, accessible only by foot, isolated law and order issues were reported. However, security forces swiftly intervened, restoring order with the cooperation of presiding officers and polling agents.

    Suse credited both the Kargil residents and officials for their crucial roles in upholding democracy. He highlighted the synergy between local efforts and guidance from the Union Territory administration, expressing confidence that future elections, including the upcoming Lok Sabha election, would also be conducted successfully.

    Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anayat Ali Choudhary, present at the media briefing, provided insights into the security arrangements implemented during the election held the previous day.