Why did Ladakh witness mass protests in freezing temperatures Explanatory.

There are several factors that contributed to the mass protests in Ladakh amidst freezing temperatures: 1. Concerns over land ownership: The protests were sparked by concerns surrounding land ownership in the region. The introduction of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (Amendment) Order, 2021, which led to changes in land laws, raised fears of the region losing its cultural and ethnic identity. 2. Economic uncertainty: Ladakh heavily relies on tourism, and the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted this sector. The lack of economic opportunities exacerbated frustration among the local population, leading to their participation in the protests. 3. Political representation: There were demands for greater political representation and autonomy from the central government. The protesters wanted legislative powers similar to those enjoyed by other union territories in India. 4. Environmental concerns: Ladakh's ecosystem is fragile, and there were concerns that the increased influx of outsiders due to changes in land laws could lead to environmental degradation and loss of natural resources. 5. Ethnic and cultural preservation: The protests also called for the preservation of Ladakhi language, culture, and traditions, as well as the promotion of local businesses and artisans. Overall, a combination of socio-political, economic, and environmental factors contributed to the mass protests in Ladakh.