Peaceful Protests and Shutdown in Ladakh Demand Statehood and Sixth Schedule Inclusion

On March 16, 2026, Ladakh witnessed peaceful protests and shutdowns led by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), demanding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Hundreds participated in rallies in Leh and Kargil, marking the first major demonstrations since violence in September 2025. The protests followed the release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, detained under the National Security Act. Authorities maintained tight security, and no untoward incidents were reported.