From informal discussions with several friends in Zanskar it appears that the recent decision to award additional seats on Kargil LAHDC results from the continued refusal of Zanskari Councillors to integrate fully with the workings of the Hill Development Council. Two of the additional (electoral) seats for Zanskar were apparently agreed some time ago and had not been instated, the third seat, which has only recently been confirmed, will be awarded to Zanskar's Sunni Muslim minority (that constitutes the majority in Zanskar's administrative capital Padum). The candidate for this seat will be decided amongst the Sunni community and will not be open to competition (from Zanskar's Buddhists) through the usual electoral process.

The good news for Zanskar is that three additional Councillors increases the investment in the Sub-Division. Each Councillor has an annual budget of 18 Lakh Rupees at their disposal; combined with the 20 Crore of the Development Authority, Zanskar has the potential to further expand their development activities. Lets hope this money is invested wisely...