Why Sankoo Sub-Division Deserves District Status?
The absence of Sankoo Sub-division from the recent decision to create five more districts namely Zanskar, Sham, Drass, Nubra and Changthang out of the existing Leh and Kargil districts of the UT of Ladakh is deeply concerning and warrants reconsideration. When evaluated against the criteria used for other newly created districts, Sankoo clearly merits elevation to district status. Several key factors support this assertion:
Ethnic Composition: Sankoo sub-division is predominantly inhabited by the Purigpa community. Failing to recognize this distinct ethnic group not only undermines their tribal identity but also jeopardizes the overall tribal diversity of Ladakh.
Geographic Considerations: The sub-division’s peripheral villages, such as Itchoo (75 km from Kargil) in the Barsoo valley and Parkachik (80 km from Kargil) in the Suru valley, are as remote as those in other newly formed districts. This geographic spread presents similar administrative and political challenges, justifying district status on par with other regions.
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Historical Significance: The area holds substantial historical importance for both Buddhist and Islamic heritage, further underlining its distinct identity and cultural value.
Population Density: Demographically, Sankoo sub-division ranks among the most densely populated regions in the Union Territory, necessitating focused administrative attention.
The order issued by the Honorable Home Minister on August 26, 2024, appears to have overlooked these critical factors in the case of Sankoo, while acknowledging similar circumstances for other regions. This inconsistency in approach raises serious concerns about equitable treatment and requires immediate review.
Addressing this disparity is crucial not only to alleviate feelings of inequality and partiality among the residents of Sankoo sub-division but also to prevent potential inter-district conflicts in the future. As Ladakh continues to evolve in its status as a Union Territory, decisions regarding its administrative structure should be grounded in social realities and devoid of political or electoral motivations.
Therefore, It is imperative that the head of UT administration Honorable L.G B. D Mishra, Home Minister Shri Amit Shah and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi should review the decision and take an inclusive and more equitable action regarding this decision. A comprehensive reassessment of Sankoo’s eligibility for district status, based on objective criteria is the need of the hour and would demonstrate a commitment to fair and inclusive governance in Ladakh. All Ladakhis keeping aside their differences aside should support this cause because it’s a shared issue for whole Ladakh and unless a collective demand it would not be possible to materialize it.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Voice of Ladakh, its editorial team, or its affiliated organizations.
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Sankoo is only 40 kilometers away from the current district headquarters, making it relatively accessible. This proximity could be seen as a reason to question the need for a new district, given that administrative services are already within reach.
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Sankoo is not far from Kargil which make them easily travel as compared to drass the oldest tehsil.
However, chiktan will also demand district status which will result in region disputes not good for Ladakh.
Our first and foremost agenda must be status of Sixth Schedule to whole Ladakh that make us unite and one community.