ThePrint ThePrintPod: Ladakh solution requires Modi govt to go against its instincts—and devolve power to people
Oct 1, 2025
The podcast dives deep into the Ladakh crisis, highlighting how local grievances have united the Buddhist-majority Leh and Shia-majority Kargil. It critiques the Modi government for deflecting blame and discusses the shift of power to an unelected lieutenant governor. Protesters are demanding statehood and protections under the Sixth Schedule, raising concerns about unemployment and potential outsider influx. The conversation argues for devolving power to empower locals while balancing security needs amid ongoing tensions with China and Pakistan.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Crisis Of Centralisation
- The Ladakh crisis stems from centralised decisions that alienated local populations.
- Blaming external forces masks the government's responsibility for the unrest.
Contrasting Treatments In Protests
- Sonam Mangshuk was arrested under the National Security Act during the Ladakh unrest.
- Ratan Priya contrasts this with the BJP's Mishra who faced no such consequences despite violent threats.
Leh's Early Optimism
- Leh celebrated when Article 370 was abrogated and Ladakh became a UT while Kargil was unhappy.
- Leh's optimism faded as real power shifted to an unelected lieutenant governor and distant civil servants.