The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The call for a bandh resonated strongly in Leh as various religious organizations rallied for the cause of Ladakh's special status.

Led by prominent figures including Nawang Dorje Lacrook and Sonam Wangchuk from the Leh Apex Body, hundreds gathered in support of implementing the Sixth Schedule in Ladakh to safeguard its unique culture and environment.

According to the news agency KNO, despite talks between Home Ministry officials and Ladakh's public representatives yielding no positive outcomes, Leh witnessed a significant shutdown on Thursday.

Business establishments remained closed, and the streets were devoid of their usual hustle and bustle. Public transportation services came to a standstill, although private vehicles were still seen plying the roads. However, government offices continued operations unaffected by the bandh.

The onset of an indefinite hunger strike by renowned environmentalist and innovator Sonam Wangchuk at the NDS Stadium further underscored the intensity of the demands put forth by Ladakh's populace. The hunger strike commenced following a massive rally that saw participation from across Leh.

Addressing the gathering, Leh Apex Body members Nawang Dorje Lacrook and Sonam Wangchuk reiterated the urgent need for implementing the Sixth Schedule in Ladakh. They emphasized that such measures were essential for the preservation of Ladakh's distinct cultural heritage and pristine environment.

Representatives from Ladakh expressed disappointment, claiming that their demands, including statehood, full implementation of the Sixth Schedule, the establishment of a Public Service Commission, and an additional parliamentary seat for Kargil, were not addressed adequately.

JAMMU — Chamber of Commerce and Industries Jammu (CCIJ) has given a shutdown call on March 11 against the imposition of property tax in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a press conference, President CCIJ Arun Gupta, as per the news agency KNO, said that after a series of meetings with members of civil society and other organizations, they have decided to observe a complete shutdown on Saturday.

He said that the Chamber of Commerce and Industry will oppose any move that will put a burden on the people.

KARGIL — Kargil observed a complete shutdown on Sunday against the LG administration for denying UT-level permits to transporters of the district.

The four-day strike call from Sunday to Thursday has been forwarded and supported by all stakeholders and other bodies including Islamia School Kargil, Imam Khomeini Memorial Trust, Jamiat Ulema Isna Ashriya Kargil, Anjuman Sofia Noorbakshia, LAHDC Kargil, Students Association and others.

All Transport Association Kargil has already informed the drivers from Leh and Kashmir Valley not to enter the limits of the Kargil district.

The transporters have been demanding UT-level permits for the taxi operators of Kargil district.

One of the local political and social activists Sajjad Kargili told the news agency KNT that on the one hand, UT status was imposed by the Government of India on Ladakh against the wishes of the people of Kargil while on the other hand, transporters are now being deprived of the UT permits which is really very disturbing.

He said that the LG administration of Ladakh UT has become a puppet of Leh transporters. “We were eligible for three permits before UT status was imposed on us - National, State, and District. The irony is that transporters of Kargil district have been directed to ply within the district. It is a direct attack on our economy,” he said, adding that a conspiracy is being hatched against a particular community in Jammu and Kashmir.

President All Transport Association Kargil, Muhammad Ibrahim said that there will be a four-day strike, and if the administration didn’t resolve the issue, they will hit the roads. He said their demand is justified and it is their constitutional right to get a UT permit.