Ladakh's Leh district placed under curfew as statehood protests lead to fatal clashes

Leh: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta announced the imposition of a curfew across the Leh district on Wednesday, following intense violence that erupted during protests calling for statehood and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

Addressing the public, LG Gupta held vested interests responsible for orchestrating the violence and loss of lives during the protests. “The curfew has been imposed as a precautionary measure. People have lost their lives here, and I express my condolences to their families,” he said, assuring that all those responsible will be identified and action will be taken according to the law.

During the day-long shutdown sponsored by the Leh Apex Body (LAB)—which has been leading agitation for statehood for over five years—clashes between protesters and security forces left four people dead and more than 45 injured, including 22 police personnel. Protesters set fire to a BJP office, a police vehicle, and several cars, prompting police to resort to teargas and baton charges to regain control.

Gupta emphasised that violence in any form will not be tolerated and directed the police and administration to take strict action against all elements disturbing peace and damaging property. He described the violence as part of a conspiracy to disrupt Ladakh’s peace and appealed to people to maintain harmony and be wary of those attempting to destabilise the social fabric.

The agitation follows a prolonged demand for special constitutional protections and restoration of statehood to Ladakh, including extension of the Sixth Schedule, which grants tribal-majority areas autonomy over legislative and financial matters. The unrest also comes amid recent talks with the Centre, which were delayed due to health concerns of hunger strike participants led by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is part of the ongoing movement.

Security presence remains strong in Leh as fresh shutdowns and protests are planned by LAB and allied groups, while the scheduled visit of LG Gupta to Kargil and the annual Ladakh Festival have been postponed due to security concerns.

With inputs from PTI