Kargil, December 27, 2024: Prominent Ladakhi organizations, including the Imam Khomeini Memorial Trust, Jamiat-ul-Ulama Isna Asharia and Anjuman-e-Sahib Zaman Karil, have come together to appeal for a more inclusive language policy under the Official Language Regulation 2024. These organizations have voiced concerns over the inclusion of “Bhoti” as one of the official languages of the Union Territory, arguing that it fails to represent the linguistic diversity of Ladakh. Instead, they have urged the government to recognize Purgi, Balti, Shina (Dardic), and Brok-skat (Dardic)—languages spoken by more than 70% of the region’s population—as official languages, similar to the multilingual policy of Jammu and Kashmir.
The organizations highlighted that Ladakh’s multilingual heritage deserves equitable representation in its official language framework. They raised objections to the term “Bhoti,” emphasizing that it lacks historical relevance in Ladakh’s context and does not reflect the linguistic identity of the region. While acknowledging the demand for recognizing “Bhoti” in Leh, they suggested renaming it as “Ladakhi” and restricting its recognition to specific areas of Leh district without imposing it across the entire Union Territory. They also stressed the need to correct historical and census inaccuracies, particularly regarding the classification of Purgi and Dardic languages, to ensure Ladakh’s linguistic heritage is accurately represented.
Key representatives of the organizations have emphasized the importance of preserving Ladakh’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
Jamiat-ul-Ulama Isna Asharia Kargil, stated, “The imposition of a single language risks undermining the identity of Ladakh’s multi-ethnic population. We need an inclusive approach that respects our diverse voices.”
Imam Khomeini Memorial Trust Kargil underscored the urgency of correcting historical misrepresentations in official records to honor Ladakh’s true linguistic landscape.
Similarly, Anjuman-e-Sahib Zaman, remarked, “Recognizing the local languages is not just about words; it is about ensuring equal representation for every community in Ladakh.”
In their appeal, the organizations have requested the Union Government and the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh to officially recognize Purgi, Balti, Shina, and Brok-skat alongside Urdu, Hindi, and English. They have also called for restricting the designation of “Bhoti” or its proposed equivalent “Ladakhi” to specific regions of Leh. Copies of the appeal have been sent to key officials, including the Chairman of LAHDC Kargil, the Member of Parliament from Ladakh, and the Ministry of Home Affairs, reflecting the organizations’ collective hope that their concerns will be addressed to preserve Ladakh’s cultural and linguistic integrity.