The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil, expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of Qamar Ali Akhoon, a towering leader, visionary statesman. The Council paid rich tributes to the departed soul, remembering him as a leader whose life was devoted entirely to the service and welfare of the people. Executive Councillor Kacho Mohd Feroz described the passing of Qamar Ali Akhoon as an irreparable loss and a huge vacuum in the political and social leadership of Kargil. He said that Late Akhoon was known for his unwavering dedication, honesty, visionary leadership, politeness, and accessibility to the common people, which made him a role model for younger generations of leadership. “He was celebrated across party lines and respected by all communities for his secular mindset and inclusive approach,” he added. Highlighting his lifelong commitment, Kacho Mohd Feroz said that till his last breath, Qamar Ali Akhoon thought only about the betterment of Ladakh. Despite serious health conditions, he continued to shoulder responsibilities as Co-Chairman of the Kargil Development Alliance (KDA) and chose to represent the voice of Ladakh before the Government of India, reflecting his deep love, dedication, and sense of duty towards his people. LAHDC Kargil extended heartfelt condolences to his brother, Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, and to all immediate family members. As a mark of respect, three days of mourning have been announced in LAHDC Kargil, and all offices of the Council will remain closed during this period. Executive Councillor Tashi Phunchok also paid rich tributes, recalling Late Akhoon as a secular, visionary leader who rose above caste, religion, and community divisions. On behalf of the Buddhist community of Kargil, he conveyed deep condolences, stating that the region has lost a leader who truly belonged to everyone. Late Qamar Ali Akhoon was the first Chairman of LAHDC Kargil and held several important portfolios as a Cabinet Minister in the erstwhile Jammu & Kashmir government, including Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution and Minister for Works and Power and transport .He also served as Advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Co-Chairman of KDA. His contributions laid the foundation for inclusive development and democratic governance in Kargil. The condolence gathering concluded with a one-minute silence observed in memory of the departed leader, followed by a faithiya khawani for the departed soul led by Executive Councillor Aga Syed Mujtaba. All councillors of and staff members of LAHDC Kargil mourns the loss of a great son of Ladakh whose legacy of service, secularism, and people-centric leadership will continue to inspire generations to come.