Srinagar, Feb. 7 -- The demands put forth by LAB and KDA include tribal status for Ladakh, inclusion in the constitution's Sixth Schedule, job reservation for locals, and a parliamentary seat each for the Leh and Kargil districts. These demands reflect the aspirations of the people who feel a sense of disempowerment and marginalization following the constitutional changes. The call for statehood and democracy echoes the sentiment that Ladakh's people seek not just constitutional safeguards but also active participation in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

Over the past four years, Ladakh has been nursing a deepening sense of grievance against New Delhi. Following the revocation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, and which...