Leh
Authorities in Ladakh have imposed a curfew in Leh following violent clashes between protesters and security forces demanding statehood for the federal territory. At least four people were killed, dozens injured, and a local office of the ruling BJP was set on fire during the unrest.
Protests turn violent
The clashes erupted amid ongoing protests led by activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been campaigning for statehood and greater autonomy for Ladakh. Authorities said protesters attacked the BJP office and torched a police vehicle, injuring around 30 personnel. Police responded with tear gas and firing in self-defence, resulting in four fatalities among protesters.
Causes and background
Ladakh, a mountainous desert region with a population of about 300,000, lost its semi-autonomy in 2019 when the BJP government split it from the former state of Jammu and Kashmir, imposing direct federal rule. The Leh region is primarily Buddhist, while Kargil district is Muslim-majority. Both communities have united in demanding restoration of statehood, along with job and land quotas for locals.
While protests have been ongoing for months, Wednesday’s violence was the worst in decades. The federal home ministry blamed Mr Wangchuk for inciting unrest through provocative statements, a charge he denies. Wangchuk called off his hunger strike and urged protesters to remain peaceful, saying growing youth frustration, unemployment, and delayed government dialogue fueled the unrest.
Reactions from local leaders
Padma Stanzin, a protest organiser, stressed that the movement has always been peaceful. Chhering Dorje Lakrook, head of the Ladakh Buddhist Association, highlighted youth frustration over delayed talks and rising unemployment, while opposing violence.
Ladakh’s Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta stated an investigation into the clashes has begun, suggesting attempts were made to incite people by drawing parallels with protests in Bangladesh and Nepal. Additional meetings between officials and protest leaders are scheduled later this week, with a federal committee expected to meet regional leaders on 6 October.
Strategic implications
Ladakh shares borders with China and Pakistan and hosts a significant troop presence. Concerns remain over stability in the region, particularly after previous clashes such as the 2020 Galwan Valley incident. Activists argue that the loss of former special status has diluted local control over land, culture, and resources, while the government maintains that dialogue with local leaders has produced positive results.
Conclusion
The curfew in Leh reflects escalating tensions in Ladakh amid statehood demands and youth unemployment. While authorities investigate the violence, the federal and regional administrations are preparing further dialogue to address grievances and prevent further unrest.