Ladakh

Ladakh is a region in the northern part of India, known for its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and strategic significance. It is located in the eastern part of the larger Kashmir region and is bordered by the Tibet Autonomous Region to the east, the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh to the south, and the regions of Gilgit-Baltistan to the west and southwest.

Ladakh is one of the most sparsely populated regions in India, with its high-altitude deserts, rugged mountains, and deep valleys creating a dramatic and beautiful environment. The region is home to a rich cultural heritage, with a significant population of Tibetan Buddhists and a smaller Muslim community. Ladakh is known for its monasteries, festivals, and traditional lifestyle, which have been preserved over centuries.

In 2019, Ladakh was officially designated as a Union Territory of India after the Indian government revoked Article 370, which had granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. As a result, Ladakh was separated from Jammu and Kashmir and became a Union Territory on October 31, 2019. The move was part of a broader reorganization of the region and has had significant political and administrative implications.

Ladakh's strategic location has also made it a focal point in India-China relations, particularly in the context of border disputes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The region has witnessed several military standoffs between Indian and Chinese forces, most notably the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides.

Tourism is a major industry in Ladakh, with visitors attracted to its natural beauty, trekking routes, and cultural sites. The region is also known for its adventurous activities such as river rafting, mountaineering, and biking.

In May 2024, BOOM investigated a viral video that falsely claimed to show Sonam Wangchuk, a well-known Indian engineer and innovator from Ladakh, demanding a plebiscite for Kashmir.

BOOM found that Wangchuk's original statement was cropped and shared out of context to make the false claim.

https://www.boomlive.in/fact-check/sonam-wangchuk-kashmir-statehood-plebiscite-fact-check-leh-ladakh-25500