‘GenZ revolution on Leh streets, but…’ Activist Sonam Wangchuk, on hunger strike, appeals against violence | WATCH

Leh: Government sources said the recent violence during protests in Ladakh “did not spiral on its own” but was “engineered deliberately,” accusing activist Sonam Wangchuk of playing a key role.

“The youth of Ladakh are paying a heavy price for the narrow political games being played, particularly by Sonam Wangchuk,” the sources said. They alleged that Congress leaders were also involved, claiming the unrest “smacks of conspiracy motivated by politics and personal gains.”

The protests turned violent as demonstrators targeted government buildings and the BJP office in Leh. Officials noted that the Centre has consistently sought dialogue, with a High-Powered Committee (HPC) meeting already scheduled for 6 October to address issues raised by the Apex Body Leh (ABL) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). Some meetings on September 25-26 were being considered after requests for postponement.

“Even with talks lined up in an open mind, violence was provoked. Sonam Wangchuk has long hinted at wanting Arab Spring-style protests in Ladakh, and his references to Gen Z protests in Nepal now seem like a blueprint,” the sources said. They added that youth were “misled, caught up in a sinister plot for political and personal gain,” and emphasised the Centre’s commitment to their welfare.

Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta also described the protests as suspicious, saying they “smell of conspiracy” and noted attempts to incite people, drawing comparisons to unrest in Bangladesh and Nepal.

Wangchuk ended his 15-day hunger strike after clashes erupted over demands for statehood and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. In a press conference, he said the move was a precaution to restore stability and condemned the violence.

This incident has disrupted our peaceful protest, which has been going on for the last 5 years. We were getting indications from the youth that they thought the path of peace was not working. Today's incident was the precipitation of such things... No party is so strong in Leh that it can mobilise youth in large numbers. This protest by the youth was only due to larger issues of unemployment and others...We saw Gen-Z's frenzy today...I understand their frustration over the last five years, but I condemn their way of protest,” Wangchuk said. He appealed for peace, urging young people not to take the path of violence, noting that such acts only undermine the cause.

People in Ladakh have long demanded inclusion of the Union Territory under the Sixth Schedule, which provides constitutional safeguards for tribal areas under Article 244(2) and 275(1), as well as statehood following the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

ANI inputs