Authorities imposed a strict curfew in Leh, Ladakh, on Thursday after violent clashes resulted in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to over 89 others. The unrest stemmed from a shutdown initiated by the Leh Apex Body (LAB), aimed at advancing discussions with the Centre regarding statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to the region.
The tensions escalated dramatically on Wednesday when protests erupted leading to violence, arson, and street clashes. The clashes broke out just a day before a scheduled general meeting with government representatives on October 6, heightening grievances in the region.
“We are committed to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of all residents,” stated a police official, who confirmed that around 50 individuals were detained for their role in the unrest overnight. Following the violence, he reassured that the situation was under control.
Authorities enacted prohibitory orders banning gatherings of five or more in other key areas such as Kargil. This reflected a growing concern for public safety amid ongoing protests led by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) supporting prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who recently ended his fasting protest due to health concerns.
The rapid deterioration of conditions in Leh prompted the government to impose an indefinite curfew. Violence erupted with protesters setting fire to the BJP office and several vehicles while vandalising the Hill Council headquarters. The local government responded swiftly, deploying heavy police and paramilitary forces throughout the region.
Kargil District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar invoked the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, enabling law enforcement to control the assembly and processions. The order specifically forbids any public speeches or declarations likely to incite enmity, contributing to a tense atmosphere in the district.
Wangchuk, who had commenced a hunger strike nearly two weeks prior, indicated that the initial violent outbreaks were likely triggered by the hospitalisation of fellow protesters, Tsering Angchuk and Tashi Dolma. He publicly condemned the violence, calling it contrary to the peaceful principles they had upheld throughout their years of advocacy.
“Our objective has always been a peaceful dialogue with the government, but today’s events show a severe departure from that path,” Wangchuk added during an online press conference. He urged the youth of Ladakh to abandon their violent actions, emphasizing that these counterproductive measures only jeopardised their longstanding struggle for statehood.
The Centre condemned the violence, attributing it to “[provocative statements]” made by activists and warned that certain politically motivated individuals were dissatisfied with the dialogue’s progress. They assured that the government remains dedicated to fulfilling the aspirations of Ladakh’s residents.
Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta described the incidents as distressing and highlighted the need for dialogue in a democratic framework. He asserted that the curfew is a precautionary step aimed at preventing further loss of life and maintaining order amidst growing tensions.
As the situation unfolds, the focus shifts back to the pending discussions between the LAB, KDA, and the Centre scheduled for October 6. Observers hope that this meeting will pave the way for a resolution to the issues that have sparked unrest in the picturesque region of Ladakh.
