In a significant escalation of unrest, authorities imposed a strict curfew in Leh, Ladakh, on Thursday following intense clashes that left four dead and over 89 injured. The violence erupted just after a shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB), which aimed to advance discussions with the Centre regarding statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh.
In an alarming turn of events, Wednesday’s protests devolved into violence, resulting in widespread arson and street confrontations. This administrative response aims to restore order in Leh while keeping security strict. Approximately 50 individuals were detained overnight, signaling the seriousness of the situation.
Officials enforced prohibitory orders banning gatherings of five or more people in major towns, including Kargil. This town was also grappling with its own shutdown, initiated by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) in support of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who led a hunger strike.
As tensions escalated, Wangchuk suspended his hunger strike after clashes broke out, galvanizing protests across the region. Protesters set fire to the BJP office and vandalized the Hill Council headquarters as law enforcement struggled to maintain control. “The situation in the curfew-bound areas is well under control. There are no untoward incidents reported from anywhere,” assured a police official.
Authorities revealed that three of the injured hailed from Nepal, prompting investigations into any foreign involvement in the unrest. The LAB and KDA have coordinated agitation campaigns over the past four years, demanding statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule. Talks between Ladakhi representatives and the Central government are slated to resume on October 6.
Heavy police and paramilitary deployments in critical towns such as Kargil, Zanskar, and Drass aimed to deter further violence, as officials enforced strict adherence to prohibitory measures. Kargil District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, effectively banning processions or demonstrations without official permission.
Officials also restricted the use of loudspeakers and other sound devices, directing citizens to refrain from making public statements that might incite unrest. These measures reflect the increasing concern for public order in a region already embroiled in tensions over constitutional protections.
The unrest began after two hunger strikers were hospitalized on Tuesday, triggering calls for protests from the LAB youth wing. The Centre alleged that “provocative statements” from activist Wangchuk incited the violence, suggesting discontent among certain groups regarding the progress of negotiations.
The home ministry reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the aspirations of Ladakh’s populace, pledging constitutional safeguards for the region. As Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta condemned the violence, he emphasized the importance of peaceful expression within a democratic framework. He stated, “Curfew has been imposed as a precautionary measure to prevent more casualties.”
In a reflective moment, Wangchuk addressed supporters during an online press conference, citing the hospitalization of two hunger strikers as a major catalyst for unrest. He urged the youth of Ladakh to cease violence, underscoring the detrimental impact on their cause and urging for stability. “This is the saddest day for Ladakh… our message of peace is failing because of the incidents of violence and arson,” he remarked.
As the situation unfolds, the imposition of a curfew underlines the fragile state of peace in Ladakh, a region that has seen escalating demands for autonomy amid growing tensions. The need for dialogue and resolution is more pressing than ever as stakeholders prepare for impending discussions.
