Kargil contractors announce boycott of non-local firms

Srinagar, May 25: In a move that has sparked controversy and drawn sharp criticism, the Kargil Contractors’ Union has announced a blanket boycott of non-local contractors operating in the region.

The announcement, made jointly by the Kargil Contractors’ Union, JCB and Tipper Operators, and the Crusher Association—has triggered concern among Kashmir-based contractors who have long been involved in development projects in Ladakh.

At a press conference held recently in Kargil, Abdul Wahid, President of the Kargil Contractors’ Union, and Mohd Ali, President of the Crusher Association, declared that no local resources—including tippers, JCBs, mining services, or crusher units—would be made available to outside contractors henceforth.

"We are not against development, but it must be inclusive and prioritize local participation," said Mohd Ali. Abdul Wahid echoed the sentiment, stating, “This step is essential to safeguard the economic interests of the people of Kargil.”

The contractors also demanded strict implementation of the Ladakh Resident Certificate (LRC), which would restrict government and private contract work exclusively to genuine residents of Ladakh.

The boycott decision is being framed by the local unions as a necessary measure to protect the livelihoods of indigenous workers and ensure that Kargil’s economic benefits remain within the region.

Opposition from Kashmir-Based Contractors

However, the move has drawn strong opposition from contractors based in Kashmir who have been undertaking infrastructure and construction projects in Kargil for decades—since Ladakh was part of the erstwhile state of J&K.

Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, members of the JK Central Contractors Coordination Committee called the decision "regressive and unfair."

“We never stop outsiders from working in Kashmir. Many of us have invested heavily in Ladakh, purchasing machinery and equipment and taking up long-term projects. This decision to boycott outsiders will put us at a huge financial loss,” said Farooq Ahmed, a senior member of the coordination committee.

The committee has appealed to the Ladakh administration and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) to intervene and ensure that the decision is reconsidered.

Development Projects at Risk

Sources warn that the boycott could severely disrupt both ongoing and upcoming infrastructure and development projects across Kargil. With local service providers pulling out support, non-local contractors may struggle to source essential services, equipment, and manpower, jeopardising deadlines and financial commitments.

While the Kargil contractors remain firm in their stance, industry insiders fear that the escalating tension could widen regional divides and negatively affect the larger development trajectory of Ladakh.