Ladakh has witnessed its worst violence in decades after protests for statehood and constitutional safeguards turned deadly. The clashes in Leh left four people dead and over 80 injured, shaking the Union Territory since it was carved out in 2019. Vehicles were set on fire, government offices vandalized, and curfew was imposed as security forces struggled to control the unrest.
The Immediate Trigger: Hunger Strike Turns Critical
The protests escalated after two hunger strikers, Tsering Angchuk (72) and Tashi Dolma (60), collapsed and were hospitalized on Tuesday. They had been fasting for 35 days demanding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule. Their condition acted as the flashpoint, drawing thousands of angry youth to the streets of Leh the next morning.
The Key Demands of Protesters
At the heart of the agitation are four demands:
- Full statehood for Ladakh
- Extension of the Sixth Schedule for tribal autonomy
- Separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil
- Employment reservations for locals
Activists argue that without safeguards, Ladakh’s fragile environment, culture, and land rights face serious risks.
Sonam Wangchuk Ends His Hunger Strike
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been fasting since September 10, ended his hunger strike after violence erupted. Calling it the “saddest day for Ladakh,” he urged young protesters to maintain non-violence. “Violence harms our cause,” he said, appealing to the government to listen to Ladakhi voices.
Violence and Casualties Reported
Officials confirmed four deaths and more than 80 injuries, including over 40 police personnel. Security forces resorted to lathicharge, teargas, and eventually live firing when crowds attacked government offices. Witnesses reported several protesters losing limbs in the chaos.
Widespread Arson Across Leh
The BJP headquarters, Hill Council office, and vehicles were torched by protesters. Black smoke filled the skies as curfew was imposed in Leh. Authorities called the incident one of the darkest days in Ladakh’s recent history.
Government Response and Blame
The Union Home Ministry blamed “provocative statements” for inciting violence and urged people not to spread fake videos online. It reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue with local groups, pointing to ongoing talks with the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA).
Lt Governor’s Statement
Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta condemned the violence as a “planned conspiracy.” He compared it to foreign uprisings and warned that vested interests were trying to destabilize Ladakh. He called on youth to restore peace while promising strict action against conspirators.
Political Reactions and Blame Game
The clashes quickly became a political flashpoint. The BJP accused the Congress of engineering the protests, while the Congress blamed the Modi government for dragging its feet on safeguards. Opposition leaders, including Omar Abdullah, linked the unrest to the broader denial of statehood across Jammu and Kashmir.
Talks Between Centre and Ladakh Groups
Since 2019, Ladakhi groups have demanded safeguards. A High-Powered Committee was formed in 2023, but progress stalled after May. The latest shutdown and hunger strike were meant to force the government to resume talks. Activists now accuse the Centre of ignoring peaceful protests for years.
What Lies Ahead for Ladakh?
The situation remains tense under curfew, with additional CRPF forces deployed and Section 163 invoked to ban rallies. Dialogue scheduled for October 6 will be crucial to defusing tensions. Sonam Wangchuk urged: “We do not want instability in Ladakh or the country. The government must listen before it’s too late.”
