Ladakh unrest: No talks until peace restored, says Apex Body Chief

Leh: Amid mounting tensions in Ladakh, Thupstan Chhewang, Chairman of the Apex Body representing Leh-based organisations, has urged the Centre and the Union Territory administration to urgently address what he described as an “atmosphere of fear, grief and anger” gripping the region.

Speaking to reporters, Chhewang said the current situation was too volatile for dialogue to proceed.

“We have unanimously agreed that the situation as it is prevailing at present, unless peace is restored in Ladakh, no talks can be held,” he said.

In a parallel development, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) issued a stern warning to the Centre, accusing it of alienating the people of Ladakh, particularly in the aftermath of the violent protests in Leh on 24 September, which left four dead and over 70 injured, including security personnel.

The KDA has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and several youth detained following the unrest.

“The grant of statehood and inclusion in the 6th Schedule for the Ladakh region is non-negotiable,” said Sajjad Kargili, a senior KDA leader, reinforcing long-standing regional demands.

September 24 violence

The protests, which began as part of an ongoing agitation for statehood, constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule, and greater autonomy, turned violent in Leh on September 24.

An unruly mob reportedly pelted stones and set fire to several buildings and vehicles, including a CRPF vehicle, allegedly with personnel inside. The local BJP office, the Leh Apex Body’s office, and the Director General of Police’s vehicle were also targeted.

Arrest of Sonam Wangchu

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent figure in the Ladakh movement, had been on a hunger strike since 10 September, but broke his fast on the day violence erupted. He was later arrested under the National Security Act (NSA) and transferred to Jodhpur jail.

In a further move, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) revoked the FCRA registration of SECMOL (Students' Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh), an organisation founded by Wangchuk, citing “gross violations” of foreign funding norms.

The continued detention of Wangchuk has sparked outrage among local groups, who accuse the government of suppressing dissent through intimidation and legal action.

Both the Apex Body and the KDA have stated that their agitation will continue until their demands are met and normalcy is restored in the region.

(IANS)