Leh, Sept 24 — At least four people were killed and more than 70 sustained injuries on Wednesday after protests demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution spiraled into violence. Authorities swiftly imposed a curfew across Leh, prohibiting public gatherings of more than five people.
The demonstrations, called by the youth wing of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), were part of a broader campaign pressing for greater constitutional safeguards and full-fledged statehood for the Union Territory. What began as a peaceful agitation soon descended into chaos when sections of the crowd allegedly resorted to stone-pelting and arson.
Protesters set ablaze the local BJP office and torched a vehicle, prompting police to use tear gas and baton charges to disperse the mob. The clashes left several security personnel and demonstrators injured.
In response, the Union administration in Leh invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, enforcing curfew restrictions and banning all processions, rallies, and marches without prior written permission.
The ongoing movement has been gaining momentum in recent months, with activists and political groups insisting on constitutional protections to safeguard Ladakh’s land, jobs, and culture. The protests intensified after two of the 15 people on a hunger strike—led by renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk since September 10—were hospitalized due to deteriorating health. Wangchuk concluded his 15-day fast on Tuesday, urging his supporters to maintain peace and avoid violence.
