LEH: Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Friday said the Union Territory of Ladakh is likely to receive special provisions under Article 371 of the Constitution as an “exceptional case”, asserting that the region holds a special place in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for development.
Speaking at the Silver Jubilee Founder’s Day celebrations of Druk Padma Karpo School at Shey in Leh district, Rijiju said the Ministry of Home Affairs was working towards providing special provisions for Ladakh under the guidance of the Prime Minister.
According to the minister, Modi has consistently advocated special attention for regions such as Ladakh and has focused on accelerating development in the area since assuming office. He said the Union Territory had witnessed significant economic and social progress in recent years.
Rijiju expressed hope that the proposed provisions would be implemented soon, enabling the people of Ladakh to benefit from them. He also said the Prime Minister had long wished to visit the region and interact with its residents.
Referring to developmental changes in Ladakh, the minister said the region had undergone substantial transformation over the past two decades, particularly in the last 10 years. He highlighted improvements in road connectivity, saying travel times between different parts of the Union Territory had reduced considerably.
He also referred to the recent creation of new districts in Ladakh, stating that the move was intended to improve governance and public service delivery. Rijiju said the grant of Union Territory status had fulfilled a long-standing demand of the people and added that a High Court bench for Ladakh would be established in the future.
Speaking on minority representation, Rijiju said he was the first Buddhist to serve in the Union Cabinet and attributed the development to what he described as the Prime Minister’s commitment to ensuring opportunities for minority communities. He said the government was working for the welfare and development of all minorities.
Addressing students, the minister urged young people to remain connected to their cultural roots and traditions. He cautioned against the uncritical adoption of online trends, saying such influences could sometimes lead to negative social consequences.
Senior officials of the Ladakh administration, along with representatives of religious and civil society organisations, attended the function.
