LEH, Ladakh – The curfew in Leh continues for the third consecutive day as authorities strive to maintain order amidst ongoing unrest. A team from the Union Home Ministry is actively reviewing the security situation following widespread protests that have left four people dead and over ninety injured.
The curfew, implemented on Wednesday evening, comes in response to significant demonstrations organized by the Leh Apex Body (LAB), which seeks statehood and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. LAB has rallied local support, emphasizing the need for political representation.
Despite the imposition of curfew, officials affirm that no further incidents have erupted in the region. Authorities expect to review the curfew restrictions and may allow for essential activities later today. Reports indicate that over fifty individuals have been detained as law enforcement agencies work diligently to prevent any escalation of violence.
Police and paramilitary forces are actively patrolling the streets to ensure compliance with curfew orders and to safeguard citizens. In light of the unrest, District Magistrate Romil Singh ordered the suspension of classes in all government and private educational institutions for two days effective Friday.
A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Home Affairs arrived in Leh on Thursday, assessing conditions on the ground and engaging with local stakeholders to mitigate tensions. This visit underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the situation with urgency.
Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace during a recent statement, declaring, “The videos being circulated are deliberate attempts to disturb peace in Ladakh. We cannot allow the future of our youth to be compromised. Any such incidents will be dealt with under a zero-tolerance policy.”
Residents and local leaders are on high alert, as daily lives remain disrupted. Essential services are available, but access remains limited under current curfew conditions. Community leaders echo the sentiment for a peaceful resolution while advocating for long-term solutions regarding political representation and autonomy.
The situation in Ladakh reflects broader calls for administrative reforms, as locals urge the government for urgent dialogues to address their demands comprehensively. The next steps from both officials and community leaders will significantly influence the unfolding dynamics in this sensitive region.
