A day after four individuals lost their lives and approximately 90 others sustained injuries during clashes in Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta convened a crucial security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. The meeting aimed to address the deteriorating situation and called for heightened vigilance to safeguard peace and order in the union territory.
Gupta reiterated his appeal for unity among the citizens, emphasizing, “Peace and harmony are the foundation of Ladakh’s identity. Together, we must protect this legacy and ensure the safety and security of every citizen.” His remarks come in light of a shutdown initiated by a component of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), advocating for expedited discussions with the Centre regarding extending the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and granting statehood to Ladakh.
The Lieutenant Governor’s office reported that he chaired the high-level meeting to evaluate the situation across Ladakh and highlighted the necessity for enhanced vigilance, effective inter-agency coordination, and proactive actions to maintain peace. Senior officials including Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal and DGP S D Singh Jamwal participated in this pivotal gathering.
Gupta stated that the safety and well-being of the region’s residents remain the foundational priority for the administration. He directed officials to implement a robust mechanism to monitor the evolving ground situation consistently, as shared by a Raj Bhavan official.
During the meeting, Gupta stressed the importance of close collaboration between civil and security entities, ensuring a rapid response to any emerging challenges. He also pointed out that strengthening intelligence-gathering networks and fostering community participation are essential for maintaining harmony.
“Ladakh has historically been celebrated for its peace, harmony, and brotherhood. Unfortunately, certain anti-social elements are attempting to disrupt this atmosphere. I urge the community not to succumb to such efforts. We must uphold peace at any cost,” Gupta asserted.
The LG highlighted the region’s notable developmental journey, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for significant progress since Ladakh became a Union Territory in 2019. “Our focus remains on building a prosperous, peaceful, and developed Ladakh. No disruptive force will be allowed to derail this progress,” he declared.
Moreover, he appealed to the public to reject violence and promised full government support, stating, “The government stands firmly with the people of Ladakh. Every life is precious, and we are ensuring the best possible medical care for those injured.”
Providing details of the government’s medical response to the injuries from the clashes, Gupta informed that 90 individuals were treated at the SNM Hospital in Leh, where three were pronounced dead on arrival, and one succumbed to injuries shortly after. Among the victims, seven people received critical care, while another 20 suffered major trauma, with 61 sustaining minor injuries. Out of these, 50 patients were discharged the same day, while seven were subjected to major surgeries, and 45 blood transfusions were performed.
In a significant move, one critically injured patient was airlifted to New Delhi via an Indian Air Force aircraft for advanced treatment. Currently, 18 patients remain admitted at the hospital, with reports indicating that 11 more were discharged recently. Gupta confirmed that the bodies of the deceased have been handed over to their families following the completion of all legal formalities.
Following the directives from the LG, the deputy commissioner of Leh visited SNM Hospital to assess the condition of the injured and to guarantee that all possible assistance extends to the affected individuals and their families. This commitment to citizen welfare comes amid pressing calls for peace and security across Ladakh, urging the community to remain vigilant and united during these trying times.
