Kargil Democratic Alliance Refuses Talks with Centre Until Activists Released, Judicial Probe Ordered
New Delhi: The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) on Tuesday announced it will not engage in talks with the Centre until climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and others arrested in Leh are released and a judicial inquiry into the September 24 firing is ordered.
Speaking at a press conference, KDA co-chairman Asgar Ali Karbalai called for a judicial investigation into the police action during the Leh shutdown.
KDA, representing leaders from Kargil—one of Ladakh’s two districts—has been in discussions with the Centre alongside the Apex Body Leh over statehood for the Union Territory.
“We are in constant communication with Apex Body Leh. We will not participate in talks with the Centre until Sonam Wangchuk is released, the arrests are stopped, all detainees are freed, and a judicial probe is ordered,” Karbalai said.
He dismissed allegations from the UT administration and the Ministry of Home Affairs, emphasizing, “Sonam Wangchuk is a national hero and must be released immediately.”
Karbalai also condemned the labeling of Ladakhis as “anti-nationals,” asserting, “We do not need a certificate of patriotism. We have sacrificed for the country. Stop portraying Ladakhis as anti-national.”
Ladakh MP Mohmad Haneefa echoed these concerns, noting the anger among locals over such terms.
Earlier, on Monday, Apex Body Leh announced a suspension of talks with the Centre, demanding a judicial inquiry into the police firing and the unconditional release of all activists, including Wangchuk. Chairman Thupstan Chhewang and co-chairman Chering Dorjay stressed that restoring a “conducive atmosphere” in Ladakh was essential before dialogue could resume.
The September 24 clashes between protesters and security personnel resulted in four deaths, numerous injuries, and over 50 arrests. Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent leader of the agitation, was detained under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) and lodged in Jodhpur Jail, Rajasthan.
