LEH, October 30, 2026 – Bringing a temporary halt to the widespread agitation in the region, women’s organizations in Ladakh have suspended their protests against the Union Territory administration’s newly introduced liquor policy.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk confirmed on Thursday that the suspension comes after the UT administration agreed to all the protesters’ demands and sought a week’s time to formalize the agreement in writing.
The women-led protests, which erupted last week across Ladakh, were primarily driven by deep concerns over the expansion of liquor availability, including the recent issuance of bar licenses and the opening of new wine shops. The agitating groups demanded a complete rollback of the policy and called for Ladakh to be officially declared a dry Union Territory, citing the need to safeguard the future of the local youth, protect the social fabric, and preserve the region’s spiritual values.
“Ladakh women leaders suspend their protest against liquor. After the UT administration agreed to all demands and sought a week to finalise the agreement. Let’s hope that their trust and faith in the system will be respected,” Wangchuk posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
The agitation was being spearheaded by a coalition of influential women’s groups, including the Ladakh Buddhist Association Women Wing, Anjuman-e-Imamia Women Wing, Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam Women Wing, and the Christian Community Women Wing. The organizations had initially planned a sustained dharna (sit-in protest) from October 29 to November 5.
However, a letter issued by the Home Department on October 29, signed by Special Secretary Tashi Dolma, provided a written assurance that the administration had accepted the organizations’ recommendations in principle.
In a joint press release, the women’s organizations stated that they were suspending their dharna to respect the administration’s request for a week’s time to finalize the agreement in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation.
“The suspension of the protest should be seen as an expression of our faith in the administration’s assurance,” the organizations stated, thanking the people of Ladakh for their overwhelming public support. They also reiterated their long-term commitment to creating a healthier, alcohol-free Ladakh.
Published by True Roots Media Network