Apex Body Leh convenes crucial meeting

Kargil, Jul 7: A day after the resignation of two prominent leaders including Thupstan Chewang and Nawang Rigzin Jora, an important meeting of the Apex Body Leh, under the Co-Chairmanship of Chering Dorje Lakrook, was held on Monday.

The meeting deliberated on critical developments regarding the leadership and representation of Ladakh in the ongoing dialogue with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Sources told Greater Kashmir that during the meeting several key points were discussed, and significant decisions were taken.

They said that the Apex body Leh members made an appeal to it’s senior leader Thupstan Chhewang to reconsider resignation.

Considering the recent announcement by Thupstan Chhewang to resign from the Chairmanship of the Apex Body, the members unanimously resolved to request him to reconsider his decision, keeping in view the larger interest of Ladakh and its future. The members reaffirmed their unwavering support for his leadership and expressed deep respect for his vision and guidance. As a mark of solidarity, the members visited Thupstan Chhewang at his residence to convey a strong and united message, affirming that they continue to regard him as the sole leader capable of guiding this movement to its rightful destination and earnestly appealed to him to withdraw his resignation. In response, Thupstan Chhewang assured the members that he would reflect on the matter and speak about it at an appropriate time.

The Apex body Leh also decided to Induct noted environmental activis Sonam Wangchuk into HPC and Sub-Committee. Sources said that after the detailed deliberations during the Apex Body meeting, it was unanimously decided to nominate Sonam Wangchuk as the representative of Apex Body Leh in the High-Powered Committee (HPC) and its Sub-Committee constituted for talks with the MHA. In the meeting, Wangchuk was officially welcomed and inducted by the Apex Body, recognizing his unwavering commitment to Ladakh's cause and his dedicated efforts in voicing the aspirations of its people.

Further The meeting also took note of the resignation submitted by Nawang Rigzin Jora from the HPC and its Sub-Committee on July 5. While members appreciated his past contributions and requested him to reconsider his decision, Jora agreed to extend his continued support and participation in Apex Body as well as High Powered Committee. He also reaffirmed his continuous support and respect to Thupstan Chhewang's Chairmanship/leadership of Apex Body Leh.

In a resolution passed, It was also unanimously resolved that if the Apex Body Sub-committee meeting is not convened before the 15th July 2025, the Apex Body will be left with no option but to extend its full support and participate in Sonam Wangchuk's call for the fast unto death, in solidarity with the Ladakhi's rightful demands for the inclusion under the Sixth Schedule and the grant of Statehood.