Consensus on who qualifies as domicile of Ladakh after stakeholders meet in Delhi
New Delhi, May 2025 – In a significant move for the Union Territory of Ladakh, government officials and regional stakeholders have agreed on new criteria to define who qualifies as a domicile of the region. This agreement came after a high-level meeting in Delhi, aiming to protect Ladakh’s local identity and address long-standing concerns about land and job security.
Why Domicile Status Matters in Ladakh
When the government revoked Article 370 in August 2019, Ladakh became a separate Union Territory. While many welcomed the move as a path to development, locals grew worried. Without special protections, they feared outsiders might take over jobs, land, and cultural spaces.
To address these concerns, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) formed a High Powered Committee (HPC) in January 2023. This panel included members from the Ladakh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). Both groups had pushed for clear and fair rules to define domicile status.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting
The meeting held in May 2025 brought clarity to a long-debated issue. Officials and local representatives reached a consensus that could shape Ladakh’s future.
1. 15-Year Residency Rule
Residents must prove they have lived in Ladakh continuously since 2019. After completing 15 years of residency, they will qualify for domicile status. This rule aims to protect the region from sudden demographic changes.
2. Prospective Implementation
The policy will only apply going forward. It excludes people who moved to Ladakh before 2019 but left or were not part of the population afterward. This step ensures the rule benefits those who stayed in the region during its transition.
3. Legal Vetting
The policy will go through legal checks before enforcement. Officials want to ensure that it aligns with constitutional standards and avoids legal disputes.
4. Job Reservation Plan
Stakeholders proposed that 95% of government jobs be reserved for Ladakhi natives. The remaining 5% would go to people who meet the new domicile criteria. This proposal still awaits final approval.
Community Reactions: Relief With Caution
Leaders from Leh and Kargil welcomed the decision. Many called it a long-overdue step toward protecting Ladakh’s identity.
“We finally see our concerns being taken seriously,” said a LAB representative. “This rule ensures people from outside can’t easily take our jobs or land.”
KDA leaders also showed support but asked for legal safeguards. They stressed that promises should turn into enforceable laws to be meaningful.
Many young residents feel optimistic. They believe the new rule will give them a fair chance at employment and help reduce migration from Ladakh.
What’s Still Pending: Autonomy and Representation
While the domicile decision is a major win, several other demands remain unaddressed:
– Sixth Schedule Inclusion
Local groups want Ladakh to be included in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. This would provide autonomy and protect tribal and cultural rights. They argue that administrative rules alone can’t preserve the region’s unique identity.
– Statehood and Elected Assembly
People in Ladakh want more control over local governance. Several leaders have asked for full statehood or at least an elected legislative body.
– Separate Public Service Commission (PSC)
Ladakh still depends on external bodies for public service recruitment. Setting up its own PSC remains a top demand. The HPC is expected to discuss this in its next meeting.
– Parliamentary Representation
Due to Ladakh’s vast geography, leaders want separate parliamentary seats for Leh and Kargil. They believe this will offer better representation for both regions.
A Crucial First Step
The agreement on domicile rules marks an important milestone for Ladakh. It reflects the Centre’s willingness to listen and respond to local voices. The decision protects Ladakh’s population while allowing space for legal migrants who genuinely wish to contribute to the region.
However, people remain watchful. They want more than promises — they want action. The next few months will be crucial in deciding how the policy takes shape and whether it truly benefits locals.
This consensus has brought hope. But it also reminds everyone that many challenges still lie ahead. For Ladakh, the journey toward identity, autonomy, and development continues.
