Ladakh Regulations Under Article 240: Domicile and Quota
Why in the news
The Centre notified a set of regulations for Ladakh under Article 240 of the Constitution, dealing with domicile, reservation, languages and women’s representation in the hill councils.
Key facts
- Article 240 lets the President make regulations for the peace and good governance of certain Union Territories, with the force of an Act of Parliament.
- This is the first time domicile-based protection has been brought into government jobs in Ladakh.
- Reservation cap: 85% in total for SCs, STs, OBCs and other socially and educationally backward groups; the EWS quota of 10% is kept apart.
- Reservation is also extended to professional colleges, including medical and engineering.
- One-third of seats in the LAHDC of Leh and Kargil are reserved for women by rotation, through an amendment to the 1997 Act.
Domicile and languages
| Item | Provision |
|---|---|
| Residence | 15 years |
| Education | 7 years of study and Class 10 or 12 examination from Ladakh |
| Official languages | English, Hindi, Urdu, Bhoti, Purgi |
| Promoted languages | Shina, Brokskat, Balti, Ladakhi |
About the Sixth Schedule demand
Residents have sought Sixth Schedule status because it gives constitutional safeguards and Autonomous District Councils with law-making powers over land and forests, which the existing hill councils lack.
Exam angle
- Article 240 versus Sixth Schedule is a likely polity question.
- Note the 85% cap and the separate 10% EWS quota.
- Remember the five official languages of Ladakh.