CEC Akhoon rejects ouster bid, alleges political vendetta behind ‘No-Confidence Move’

Says development must not be derailed; Challenges MP Haneefa, welcomes BJP support

Kargil: Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil, Dr Jaffar Ali Akhoon on Saturday strongly defended his leadership amid mounting political turbulence in the council, rejecting calls for his removal and alleging that the ongoing no-confidence campaign is being driven by political interests rather than public welfare.

Addressing a press conference, Dr Akhoon said he would not step down under pressure and maintained that the existing council setup should not be disturbed at a time when Kargil’s development trajectory is gaining momentum.

Referring to recent statements made by political leaders and councillors seeking a change in the council leadership, Akhoon argued that the political understanding regarding rotational leadership between alliance partners had effectively lost relevance after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

He claimed that the political circumstances under which the arrangement was reached had changed substantially and accused some leaders of selectively recalling only the leadership-sharing component while ignoring other commitments that were part of the broader understanding.

 “The focus today should be on development and stability, not on power struggles,” he said, adding that Kargil had witnessed significant developmental progress over the last two-and-a-half years under the present council.

The CEC asserted that a majority of National Conference councillors continued to support him and alleged that attempts to unseat him were being orchestrated by a small group of leaders driven by personal and political considerations.

Akhoon also defended his approach of maintaining cordial relations with the Central Government, stating that constructive engagement with New Delhi was essential for securing developmental projects and addressing Kargil’s long-pending demands.

He said confrontation with the Centre would not benefit the region and stressed that Ladakh’s interests could be better served through dialogue and cooperation.

In a direct attack on Ladakh MP Mohmad Haneefa, Akhoon questioned the latter’s position as District President of the National Conference while serving as an Independent Member of Parliament. He urged the authorities, including the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Ladakh administration, to examine whether the arrangement was consistent with anti-defection provisions.

The CEC further alleged that some signatures submitted in support of the no-confidence move were not genuine and claimed that political opponents were attempting to create instability in the council.

Responding to questions on whether he was moving closer to the BJP, Akhoon denied any plans to switch political allegiance, saying his engagement with the Centre was aimed solely at advancing developmental interests and securing benefits for Kargil. He also welcomed support from local BJP leaders on developmental matters and expressed hope that councillors across party lines would prioritise district development over political rivalry.

Akhoon maintained that there is no fixed timeline under the Hill Council Act for considering a no-confidence motion and said he was prepared to face any such challenge whenever it is formally taken up.

Reiterating his commitment to public service, the CEC said his decisions would continue to be guided by the aspirations of the people rather than political pressure. “I am not interested in negative politics. My priority is development, public welfare and ensuring that Kargil’s voice is heard,” he said.

The remarks come amid intensifying political tensions within Kargil’s political landscape, with competing factions staking claim to public support and debating the future leadership of the Hill Council. The controversy is expected to further shape the evolving political dynamics in the district in the coming weeks.