Ladakh witnessed a tragic and violent turn on Wednesday when a peaceful protest demanding full statehood erupted into chaos in Leh. Students clashed with police and security forces, leaving four people dead and more than 70 injured.
How the Violence Broke Out
The protest began with students marching in support of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike for the past 15 days demanding statehood for Ladakh and the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to the region.
As the rally intensified, protesters started pelting stones at security forces. The situation escalated when the BJP office in Leh and a CRPF vehicle were set on fire. Shops in the city remained shut following the bandh call given by the agitators.
To bring the situation under control, police used tear gas shells and even opened fire. After hours of clashes, the authorities finally managed to restore order. The administration has now banned rallies and public gatherings without prior permission across Leh.
Wangchuk Ends His Hunger Strike
Soon after the violence, Sonam Wangchuk announced that he was ending his fast. Calling it a “sad day for Ladakh,” he expressed disappointment that the peaceful struggle of the past five years had turned into violence.
“We walked from Leh to Delhi, we fasted in silence, we carried the message of peace. But today we see gunfire, arson, and clashes. I urge the youth of Ladakh to stop this madness. I am breaking my fast and asking everyone to restore peace,” Wangchuk said.
Why Are People Protesting?
The protesters are demanding:
Full statehood for Ladakh
Inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution
The Sixth Schedule provides special constitutional safeguards for tribal populations, including local governance, financial autonomy, and judicial powers. Currently, it applies to four northeastern states — Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. Protesters argue that Ladakh’s tribal communities deserve similar protection.
Political Reactions
Political leaders across India have started reacting to the unrest. Veteran leader Farooq Abdullah blamed the violence on the central government’s failure to fulfill promises made to the people of Ladakh after its separation from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs is scheduled to hold talks with Ladakhi representatives — including the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) — on October 6. Both groups have been jointly demanding statehood and constitutional safeguards for the past four years.
The Road Ahead
Wednesday’s violence marks one of the most serious flashpoints in Ladakh since it became a Union Territory. The incident has not only raised questions about governance and representation but also about the region’s fragile peace.
While talks with the Centre may offer a path forward, the tragedy in Leh has underlined the urgency of addressing Ladakh’s aspirations before frustration spills over again.
Quick Highlights: Ladakh Violence in Leh
4 killed, 70+ injured in violent clashes in Leh.
Protesters demanding statehood & Sixth Schedule for Ladakh.
BJP office and CRPF vehicle torched during unrest.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk ends 15-day hunger strike after violence.
Prohibitory orders imposed; rallies and gatherings banned in Leh.
Talks with Centre scheduled for October 6 with LAB & KDA representatives.https://deshnewshub.com/
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