National Desk / Leh, Ladakh
25 September
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
Journalist and Reserch Analysist
The town of Leh witnessed a wave of violence during a bandh (shutdown) when clashes broke out between protesters and security forces. The violence left four people dead and 59 others injured, including 22 security personnel.
The clashes started after the Ladakh Apex Body called for a shutdown to press their long-standing demands – statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
Curfew Imposed in Leh
As the situation went out of control, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta announced a curfew in Leh district. He appealed to citizens to remain peaceful and assured that strict action would be taken against mischief-makers.
Authorities said protesters set fire to a BJP office and the Leh Council Secretariat. Several vehicles were also attacked. To bring the situation under control, police opened fire. Protesters claim that the four deaths were due to police firing.
Hunger Strike Broken
Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike for 35 days, ended his fast today after the violence. He expressed sorrow at the loss of lives and said the situation had become serious with growing anger among youth.
In an online press conference, Wangchuk said that the failure of peaceful protests to produce results was pushing young people toward frustration and despair.
Earlier, police had forcibly admitted two hunger strikers to hospital on Tuesday evening. This action angered the public and triggered the bandh call by the youth wing of the Ladakh Apex Body.
Restrictions Under Public Safety Law
District authorities invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which bans gatherings of five or more people. Leh District Magistrate Romil Singh Dongk warned that violators would face punishment under BNSS Section 223. He added that any rally, march, or protest would now require written permission from the authorities.
Political Reactions
The violence in Leh has drawn strong political reactions. Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the incidents are an “eye-opener” about how people feel when they are denied statehood. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), he said the unrest in Leh shows the deep disappointment and betrayal felt by people.
Another former chief minister, Mehbooba Mufti, also reacted, urging the central government to take “appropriate steps” after witnessing the situation in Ladakh.
Anger and Smoke in the Sky
During the bandh, the entire Leh town was shut down. Witnesses reported seeing flames and thick smoke rising in the sky, visible from a distance. Streets were empty, shops closed, and security forces patrolled the town.
The violence marks a turning point in Ladakh’s ongoing movement for greater rights and political recognition. With both sides firm in their positions, the coming days will be crucial for peace in the region.