Returning to Ladakh full of hope, but battle for rights will continue, say protesters

Padma Stanzin, along with other protesters, walked from Ladakh to Delhi to demand the inclusion of the Union Territory in the Constitution’s Sixth Schedule. After nearly three weeks of camping outside Ladakh Bhawan, the Ministry of Home Affairs has agreed to discuss their demands in December. Stanzin, a 26-year-old unemployed graduate, is hopeful that their voices will be heard. Many protesters like Stanzin are concerned about unemployment and the impact of climate change on agriculture and tourism in Ladakh. They are demanding safeguards under the Sixth Schedule for autonomy in decision-making. Liyaqat Loshay, a 26-year-old graduate, joined the protests against unemployment despite finally finding a job as an insurance agent. The youth of Ladakh are coming together to demand better opportunities and representation from the government.