Ladakh LG Kavinder Gupta Assures Measures to Prevent Future Violence as Normalcy Returns in Leh
Markets reopen, vehicles run normally, and schools resume after September 24 protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule inclusion.
Ladakh, Oct 3: Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta said normalcy has largely returned to Leh following the protests on September 24. Markets have been open from 10 am to 6 pm for the past four days, and both private and commercial vehicles are operating normally. Educational institutions up to the eighth grade have also resumed.
The protests, initially aimed at demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, escalated into clashes with police officials. Reflecting on the incident, the LG called the events “painful and tragic” and assured that steps are being taken to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Addressing the arrest of environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, Gupta stated that actions were based on evidence, and those affected retain the right to seek legal recourse. Several protesters have been released or granted bail, and a magisterial inquiry has been initiated into the violent clashes.
“We’re ensuring that such incidents don’t happen again. Dialogue remains the key, and we appeal to the public to share information with police to ensure culprits face justice,” Gupta added. He also highlighted ongoing talks between the central government, MHA, and the Leh Apex Body, with discussions continuing until October 6.
