Pangong Tso, Ladakh – The recently unveiled statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji near the iconic Pangong Tso lake has stirred controversy, with local representatives questioning its relevance to the region. The Chushul councillor, Konchok Stanzin, criticized the installation for being done without consulting local stakeholders and argued that Ladakh has its own historical figures deserving of recognition, notably General Zorawar Singh.
Local Concerns Over Relevance
The statue, installed at a unit location of the Maratha Light Infantry (MLI) by Lieutenant General Hitesh Bhalla, General Officer Commanding of the 14 Corps, celebrates Shivaji as a symbol of Hindu nationhood. However, critics point out that Shivaji’s contributions hold limited direct relevance to Ladakh’s history.
Stanzin highlighted the absence of local consultation, emphasizing that the region’s heritage and military history are better represented by figures like General Zorawar Singh. Known as the “conqueror of Ladakh,” Zorawar Singh’s campaigns in the 19th century brought Ladakh under Indian rule, solidifying India’s northern boundaries.
Historical Context and Legal Angle
The installation of the statue has also drawn attention to environmental concerns. Legal experts have pointed to the 2003 Supreme Court judgment in Abdul Rehman vs State of Rajasthan, which prohibits alterations to water bodies and mandates restoration to their 1947 status. If pursued legally, this ruling could challenge the presence of the statue near Pangong Tso, a critical water body.
Call for Recognition of Regional Heroes
Local sentiment favors honoring military icons like:
General Zorawar Singh, who led successful campaigns against Qing forces in 1841 and secured Ladakh for India.
Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing, who integrated Tawang into India in 1951.
Brigadier Udai Singh Bhati, who secured strategic areas near Kargil and Drass during the 1971 war.
These figures have left a tangible legacy in shaping India’s territorial boundaries, with their contributions deeply embedded in the region’s history.
A Growing Demand for Parity
While the unveiling of Zorawar Singh’s statue at Jammu University by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was a step in the right direction, many believe more should be done to honor his legacy. Statues and commemorations in Ladakh, where he fought and sacrificed his life, would resonate more deeply with the region’s identity and history.
The debate over the Shivaji statue underscores a broader conversation about balancing national and regional heritage while respecting local sentiments. For many in Ladakh, honoring General Zorawar Singh is not just about history but about recognizing a hero who reshaped the region’s destiny.
