India, Nov. 12 -- Ladakh's Chief Electoral Officer has prohibited political dharnas, protests, sit-ins and rallies within the municipal limits of Leh and Kargil during the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) period, drawing opposition from regional leaders who argue that the December 4 Hill Council elections could prevent people who migrate during winter from exercising their right to vote.

In an order issued on Wednesday, Chief Electoral Officer Rahul Sharma said such gatherings could intimidate voters, disturb public order and undermine the conditions necessary for free and fair elections. The restriction applies to the Municipal Committees of Leh and Kargil, where the MCC came into force on October 23 following the election notification. It w...