A new Buddhist organization, the Voice of Buddhist Community of Ladakh (VBL), has emerged, seeking inclusion in ongoing talks between Ladakhi representatives and the Indian government regarding constitutional safeguards for the region. The VBL, formally established on January 1, 2026, is backed by prominent Buddhist leaders, citizens, youth, and women from all parts of Ladakh. It aims to address what it perceives as a "lack of equal and inclusive representation of the Buddhist community" in the current dialogue with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) have been the primary groups engaged in discussions with the Centre concerning Ladakh's future, particularly regarding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. However, the VBL believes that the interests of the Buddhist community are not adequately represented by these groups. The organization fears that the proposals put forth by the LAB and KDA may be skewed in favor of the Kargil region. It opposes the demand for statehood, a key issue in the talks, and intends to submit a separate draft proposal to the central government after further consultations.
Skarma Namtak, the convener of VBL, recently met with the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh to present the organization's demands. He emphasized that any dialogue concerning Ladakh's future must adequately address the concerns of the Buddhist community. The VBL's emergence introduces a new dimension to the negotiations, potentially complicating the process while also ensuring broader community involvement.
The Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), an organization focused on the interests of Buddhists in Ladakh, has historically allied with Hindu nationalist groups due to shared concerns about political autonomy and marginalization by the Kashmiri government. However, these alliances are primarily for political and socio-economic reasons, as Ladakhi Buddhists remain cautious about the influence of these groups on their community.
Concerns about under-representation of Buddhists in the talks have been voiced before. Previously, there have been concerns raised by former members of the LBA, stating that the Muslim community is overrepresented in the talks. Tsering Samphel, president of the Kargil branch of the LBA, has also sought greater representation for Kargili Buddhists in the discussions.
The formation of the VBL reflects a growing desire within the Buddhist community to have a stronger voice in determining Ladakh's future. It remains to be seen how the inclusion of VBL will reshape the dynamics of the talks and impact the final outcome. The organization's emergence highlights the complex interplay of regional, communal, and political interests in Ladakh and the ongoing efforts to ensure that all voices are heard in shaping the region's destiny.
