NEW DELHI, Sep 25: A day after violent clashes erupted in Ladakh, the Congress on Thursday blamed the BJP government for creating the current crisis, stating that the unrest stems from its failed policies and unfulfilled promises. The party also emphasized that the demand for inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule, aimed at protecting the region’s identity and ensuring dignity, is both legitimate and just.
The statehood movement in Ladakh turned violent on Wednesday, with arson and street clashes in Leh leaving four dead and over 80 injured, including 40 police personnel. Congress media head Pawan Khera described the loss of lives as “tragic” and criticized the government’s handling of the situation.
“It’s a grim reminder of the government’s failed promises. In 2019, the nation was assured that the humiliation faced by the people of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir would end. Six years later, the trouble has only deepened,” Khera said in a statement on X. He added that the crisis is “of the BJP government’s own making” and should not be ignored.
The Congress urged the Centre to recognize Ladakh’s demands with compassion and statesmanship, rather than neglect. On Wednesday, protesters targeted the BJP headquarters and the Hill Council, setting vehicles on fire. Security forces intervened with teargas to control the situation.
The Union Home Ministry attributed the violence to “provocative statements” by activist Sonam Wangchuk and alleged politically motivated elements seeking to disrupt ongoing talks between the government and Ladakhi representatives. Authorities reported that by 4 pm, the situation was largely under control.
A curfew remained in place in Leh on Thursday, with around 50 people detained as police and paramilitary forces maintained strict security.