Centre Committed to Special Constitutional Safeguards for Ladakh Under Article 371: Kiren Rijiju
He emphasised that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has already made a formal announcement in this regard, and the Union Government is steadily advancing the process
SRINAGAR: Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Friday said that the Modi Government is fully committed to granting Ladakh a special constitutional provision under Article 371, ensuring stronger protections for the region’s unique cultural, tribal and geographic identity.
He emphasised that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has already made a formal announcement in this regard, and the Union Government is steadily advancing the process.
Speaking at the Silver Jubilee Celebration of Druk Padma Karpo School in Leh, Rijiju highlighting the government’s roadmap for Ladakh’s administrative and developmental transformation. He said that the ongoing restructuring—creation of seven new districts and seven elected district councils—is part of a broader effort to empower local governance, strengthen democratic participation, and bring administration closer to the people.
Rijiju said that Ladakh’s aspirations have been clearly heard by the Central government, and the leadership is determined to address them with sincerity and constitutional backing. He noted that Ladakh’s strategic importance, fragile ecology, and rich civilizational heritage demand a governance model that is both sensitive and robust.
“The people of Ladakh have consistently voiced their desire for stronger constitutional safeguards. The Modi Government respects this sentiment. Under Article 371, Ladakh will receive special provisions that protect your culture, your land, your traditions, and your future. Home Minister Amit Shah has already announced this commitment, and, with the blessings of Modiji, the process is moving forward with the creation of seven districts and seven district councils. This is not just administrative reform—it is empowerment.”
He added, “Ladakh is a region of immense pride for India. The government is working with full dedication to ensure that development reaches every village, every household, and every young mind seeking opportunity. I assure you that Ladakh’s concerns are our concerns, and Ladakh’s future is a national priority.”
In a significant announcement welcomed by the gathering, Rijiju declared that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will soon visit Ladakh to personally review ongoing development projects, interact with local communities, and reaffirm the Centre’s commitment to the region’s long-term stability and growth.
Rijiju concluded by praising the contribution of Druk Padma Karpo School over the past 25 years, calling it a symbol of Ladakh’s resilience, innovation, and cultural strength.
