Ladakh enters 2026 with hopes for statehood and Sixth Schedule protections after a turbulent 2025. The region experienced deadly protests, resulting in four deaths and nearly 100 injuries, fueled by a hunger strike by activist Sonam Wangchuk. Wangchuk's subsequent detention under the NSA sparked further anger. While dialogue between Ladakh's leadership and the Union Home Ministry occurred, a fresh round of talks is pending, with residents hopeful for a resolution this year.