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Ahead of urban polls, Ladakh bans rallies, protests, hunger strikes in Leh, Kargil

Early Times Report

Jammu, Nov 11: A day after implementing the model code of conduct, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Ladakh has imposed a ban on holding protests or dharnas in the Union Territory. The CEO banned political parties, candidates and their supporters from organising dharnas, protests, demonstrations, sit-ins, hunger strikes and rallies within the municipal limits of Leh and Kargil during the model code of conduct for the upcoming urban local bodies elections.
An order issued by Chief Electoral Officer Rahul Sharma, IAS, on November 11, 2026, states that the restriction will remain in force throughout the Model Code of Conduct period, which came into effect on October 23 following the notification calling upon electors to elect members of the Municipal Committees of Leh and Kargil.
The order prohibits political parties, candidates, workers, supporters and other persons from organising, holding or participating in collective political activities that are likely to affect the peaceful conduct of elections.
The CEO said such activities could intimidate voters, disturb public order and undermine the atmosphere required for free, fair and peaceful elections.
Political parties, candidates and their agents have also been directed to strictly follow the Model Code of Conduct and ensure that no activity is undertaken that could intimidate, coerce or unduly influence voters.
The District Election Officers (Deputy Commissioners) of Leh and Kargil, along with the respective Superintendents of Police and other concerned authorities, have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order.
The order warns that violations will be dealt with firmly under the relevant provisions of law and the Model Code of Conduct, including the initiation of appropriate legal proceedings.
The District Election Officers have also been instructed to give wide publicity to the order through print and electronic media and display copies at prominent public places, including Municipal Committee offices and the Deputy Commissioners’ notice boards.
The order has been issued under Section 282 of the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000, read with the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Committee (Election) Rules, 2003, for ensuring free, fair and peaceful municipal elections in Leh and Kargil.