Ladakh women’s groups suspend liquor‑policy protest after admin accepts all demands

Protest against Ladakh's new liquor policy was suspended after the Union Territory administration accepted all demands and asked for a week to formalise the agreement, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk said on X on Thursday, Oct 29 2026. Women‑led groups had begun a dharna last week demanding a full rollback of the policy and for Ladakh to be declared a dry Union Territory. The four organisations – Ladakh Buddhist Association Women Wing, Anjuman‑e‑Imamia Women Wing, Anjuman Moin‑ul‑Islam Women Wing and Christian Community Women Wing – halted their sit‑in scheduled from Oct 29 to Nov 5 following a written assurance from the Home Department. The assurance came in a letter signed by Special Secretary Tashi Dolma, which accepted in principle all points and recommendations submitted by the groups. Protesters objected to the expansion of liquor availability, including new bar licences and wine shops, citing concerns for youth safety, social fabric and Ladakh's cultural and spiritual values. The administration’s request for a week was presented as a gesture of dialogue and cooperation, and the groups agreed to pause their demand until written terms are delivered. In a press release the organisations said the suspension reflected their faith in the administration’s promise and thanked Ladakh residents for strong support. They reiterated a long‑term aim for a healthier, alcohol‑addiction‑free Ladakh.

Context

The demand for a dry Union Territory reflects broader concerns in hill regions about alcohol's impact on community health and traditional ways of life.