Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar

Srinagar, Sep 24: Leh was gripped by intense violence on Wednesday, leaving four people dead and over 70 injured as protests spiraled out of control, prompting authorities to impose emergency restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNS) Act, 2023. The chaos erupted amid a growing agitation led by hunger strikers demanding statehood, Sixth Schedule implementation, and ecological protections for Ladakh.

Tensions boiled over when a crowd marching in solidarity with the hunger strikers turned violent, attempting to storm the Leh Hill Development Council Secretariat. Security forces responded with tear gas and baton charges after the mob began pelting stones, torching vehicles—including a CRPF van—and vandalizing the BJP office. Protesters also tried to set the Hill Council building on fire, leading to partial damage before firefighters contained the flames.

The District Magistrate, Romil Singh Donk, invoked prohibitory measures citing threats to public safety and law and order. The order bans rallies, loudspeakers, inflammatory speeches, and public gatherings of five or more people. Authorities confirmed the restrictions would stay in place until further notice and would be strictly enforced by security forces.

Chering Dorjay, chairman of the Hill Council, confirmed the deaths and injuries while officials reported that over three dozen security personnel were also hurt—some critically. The protests had started peacefully but intensified after news spread about the deteriorating health of two hunger strikers—72-year-old Chhering Angchok and 60-year-old Doma—who were hospitalized after fasting for nearly two weeks.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been a leading voice in the movement, called off his hunger strike as violence escalated, urging protesters to return to peaceful, Gandhian methods. He warned that violent unrest would only derail the cause and increase hardship for the people of the region.

In the midst of the turmoil, the Leh Festival—a major cultural celebration—was abruptly canceled. The final day of festivities, set to be attended by Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta, was called off due to the law and order situation. Organizers expressed regret as the event was meant to highlight Ladakh's rich heritage and attract tourism.

Political fallout quickly followed. BJP leader Amit Malviya accused Congress councillor Phuntsog Stanzin Tsepag of inciting violence, sharing photos on social media and blaming the Congress party for fueling unrest. In contrast, former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah weighed in by pointing to Ladakh’s growing sense of betrayal over the unfulfilled promise of statehood, drawing a parallel with Jammu & Kashmir’s own unaddressed demands.

With tensions still high, authorities have ramped up security measures and continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further flare-ups.