Leh, Sep 24 — At least four people were killed and over 70 injured after violent clashes erupted between protesters and security forces in Leh on Wednesday. The District Magistrate (DM) imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNS) Act, 2023, citing threats to peace and public safety.
The protests, initially held in solidarity with hunger strikers demanding statehood, Sixth Schedule protections, and safeguards for Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem, turned violent when demonstrators attempted to storm and torch the Leh Hill Council Secretariat. Police resorted to tear gas and baton charge before opening fire as the mob vandalised property, torched vehicles—including a CRPF van—and attacked the BJP office.
DM Romil Singh Donk’s order prohibits gatherings of five or more people, rallies without prior approval, and use of loudspeakers without clearance. Authorities said the curbs aim to prevent further escalation. Security forces have been instructed to enforce them strictly.
More than three dozen security personnel were injured in the violence, some critically. Firefighters contained the Secretariat blaze, though the building suffered partial damage.
The protests gained momentum after two hunger strikers, 72-year-old Chhering Angchok and 60-year-old Doma, were hospitalised due to deteriorating health. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk called off his fast and urged protesters to maintain peace, stressing that Gandhian methods, not violence, could achieve their demands.
The unrest also forced the cancellation of the concluding events of the Leh Festival, a key cultural showcase meant to boost tourism.
Political blame games quickly surfaced. BJP’s Amit Malviya accused Congress councillor Phuntsog Stanzin Tsepag of instigating the mob, while J&K CM Omar Abdullah drew parallels with Jammu & Kashmir’s unfulfilled statehood promise, highlighting the growing sense of betrayal among Ladakhis.
Authorities confirmed additional security deployment across Leh to restore calm.
