Leh Apex Body calls for silent march and blackout in Ladakh on October 18
Leh, Oct 16: The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has announced a two-hour silent march followed by a three-hour blackout across the Union Territory of Ladakh on October 18, in a solemn show of solidarity with the families of the four individuals who lost their lives during last month’s violent incidents and those critically injured in the clashes.
In a statement issued here, the LAB said the peaceful demonstration aims to express collective grief, unity, and resistance while also protesting against the delay in releasing detained youths linked to the recent unrest.
On Tuesday, the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) jointly reiterated their long-standing demands for statehood and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule. Both groups also renewed their call for a judicial inquiry into last month’s violence, setting it as a key condition for resuming talks with the Centre.
Following an emergency meeting, the LAB resolved to organize the silent march from Namgiyal Chowk to Shanti Stupa in Leh, beginning at 11 a.m., and to observe a three-hour symbolic blackout from 6 p.m. the same day. “The silent protest and blackout are meant to send a strong message to the outside world that Ladakh remains peaceful, united, and determined in its pursuit of justice and rights,” the statement read.
The LAB clarified that the protest will be completely non-violent, with no slogans, speeches, or placards permitted. Participants will wear black armbands as a symbol of mourning, anger, and resistance against injustice. Parallel demonstrations are also planned in Kargil and across various block levels throughout the region.
As part of a broader appeal for restraint and respect for the deceased, the Apex Body has urged residents to refrain from using music systems or traditional instruments such as the Daman and Surna during marriages and festive occasions for the next three months, observing this period as a mark of collective mourning.
LAB leaders emphasized that the movement is rooted in the spirit of peace and unity, reflecting the people’s unwavering resolve to protect Ladakh’s identity, constitutional rights, and socio-political dignity.
