Sources: 
Ladakh has taken a landmark step to enhance women’s political representation by reserving
33% of hill council seats for women on a rotational basis. This move is part of broader reforms notified by the Union Government on June 3, 2025, aimed at strengthening constitutional safeguards for the Union Territory, which was formed in 2019.
The new policies also include an increase in reservation for resident Ladakhis in government jobs to
85%, replacing the earlier cap of 50% under the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004. This amendment was formalized through the Union Territory of Ladakh Reservation (Amendment) Regulation, 2025, notified by President Droupadi Murmu.
Ladakh’s population of approximately 2.74 lakh is predominantly tribal, with around
80% belonging to tribal communities as per the 2011 Census. The enhanced reservation policies and the introduction of women’s seat reservations in hill councils reflect the government’s response to demands from Ladakhi civil society groups for greater constitutional protections and local empowerment.
“The total percentage of reservation shall in no case exceed 85%, excluding reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS),” states the new proviso, ensuring a significant boost in local representation.
These reforms are expected to promote inclusive governance and address long-standing demands for political and social equity in Ladakh’s unique socio-cultural landscape.
Sources: Ladakh has reserved 33% of hill council seats for women on a rotational basis, marking a significant boost in women’s representation. The Union Government also increased local reservation to 85% for residents, amid new policies notified on June 3, 2025, enhancing constitutional safeguards for the Union Territory.
