Leh, Sep 25: At least 50 people were detained as authorities enforced a strict curfew on Thursday in Leh, following deadly clashes on Wednesday that left four dead and over 89 injured. The violence erupted during a shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) to press for statehood and extension of the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh.
The unrest saw widespread arson, vandalism, and street clashes. Protesters set fire to the BJP office, damaged vehicles, and vandalized the Hill Council headquarters, prompting the indefinite curfew. Authorities confirmed that the situation in curfew-bound areas is now under control.
Prohibitory orders have also been imposed in Kargil and other major towns, including Zanskar, Nubra, Padam, Changtang, Drass, and Lamayuru. Kargil District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar issued restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, banning assemblies of five or more people, processions, and public speeches without prior authorization. Use of loudspeakers, public address systems, or online statements likely to disturb peace is also prohibited.
The unrest escalated after two hunger-striking activists were hospitalized, triggering protests by the LAB youth wing. Authorities suspect that foreign elements may have influenced the violence, as three of the injured were Nepali citizens.
Home Ministry officials stated that the violence was linked to “provocative statements” by activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had led the fortnight-long hunger strike. Wangchuk called off the fast amid the deteriorating situation, urging youth to stop the violence to prevent further harm to Ladakh’s peaceful movement.
Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta described the events as “heart-wrenching” and emphasized that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, the recent violence appeared orchestrated. Heavy deployment of police and paramilitary personnel continues across Ladakh to maintain order.
The next round of talks between the Central government and Ladakhi groups is scheduled for October 6, as efforts to address demands for statehood and constitutional safeguards continue.