Srinagar, Sept 25: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday said the recent violence in Leh reflects growing anger over unfulfilled promises on statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh.
He linked the unrest to climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s 14-day hunger strike and years of peaceful protests, noting that youth frustration erupted after long delays in meeting assurances made five years ago.Abdullah said protesters torched a BJP office, police vehicles, and other property, prompting police firing that left four dead and dozens injured.
He stressed the unrest was local in nature, not externally driven, but warned it carried serious implications given Ladakh’s border location.
Urging the Centre to act swiftly, Abdullah said the situation should serve as a cautionary example, reminding the government that similar promises of statehood remain pending for Jammu and Kashmir. He called for dialogue and timely action to address Ladakh’s concerns and prevent further instability.
