Curfew gripped Leh, Ladakh, on Thursday as authorities imposed strict restrictions following violent clashes that claimed four lives and left over 89 injured. The violence erupted amid protests supporting demands for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to the region.
The unrest began on Wednesday when a shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) devolved into chaos. Protesters clashed with security forces, leading to acts of violence and arson, including the torching of a BJP office and several vehicles.
Officials detained approximately 50 individuals overnight for their involvement in the clashes. As part of the security measures, the police and paramilitary forces enforced a curfew and prohibited gatherings of five or more people in Leh, Kargil, and other major towns.
“The situation in the curfew-bound areas is well under control. There are no untoward incidents reported from anywhere,” a police official stated, emphasizing the effectiveness of the security measures.
Among the injured were three individuals from Nepal, prompting authorities to investigate potential foreign influence behind the violence. Police continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring public safety measures are firmly implemented.
The call for a shutdown stemmed from the LAB’s ongoing agitation for greater autonomy and protection of local rights. This movement, supported by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), surged recently as dissatisfaction with the central government’s response to their demands intensified. The next round of talks with the Centre is set for October 6.
Heavy security presence, including riot gear and armed personnel, now permeates regions like Kargil, Zanskar, Nubra, and Lamayuru, as officials seek to prevent further violence. Kargil District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar invoked prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, capturing the gravity of the situation.
Authorities have restricted the use of loudspeakers and any public statements that could incite violence or breach public order. These measures reflect a government effort to maintain peace and order in the face of unrest.
Tension escalated in Leh when two hunger strikers, among 15, required hospitalization due to deteriorating health, triggering widespread protests. Activist Sonam Wangchuk, leading the hunger strike to draw attention to local issues, announced the cessation of his fast following the outbreaks of violence.
The Home Ministry attributed the mob violence to “provocative statements” by Wangchuk. It emphasized that certain politically motivated groups showed discontent with the ongoing negotiations, leading to the unrest.
“The government stands committed to the aspirations of the people of Ladakh by providing adequate constitutional safeguards,” read a statement from the Home Ministry. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta called the events troubling, underscoring the need for peaceful expression in a democratic system.
“Curfew has been imposed as a precautionary measure to prevent more casualties,” Gupta stated, highlighting the seriousness of the disruption.
In an online press conference, Wangchuk appealed to youth in Ladakh, urging them to renounce violence for the sake of their cause. He expressed sadness over the day’s events, lamenting the failure of peaceful protests in light of the recent turmoil.
“This is a sad day for Ladakh… Our message of peace failed because of violence and arson,” Wangchuk reflected, beckoning for a return to non-violent methods in advocating for change.
As Ladakh grapples with complex socio-political desires amid its evolving identity, the curfew serves as a sobering reminder of the delicate balance between demand for autonomy and the need for public order in the region.
