Leh protests turn violent as demands for statehood and Sixth Schedule escalate

Protests in Leh, Ladakh, demanding full statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution erupted into violence on Sep 24 leaving four people dead and many others injured. The demonstrations were led by the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, groups that have long sought constitutional safeguards and autonomy for Ladakh.

The unrest followed a 15-day hunger strike by activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had urged the Centre to advance talks that were scheduled for October 6. Supporters said repeated delays in negotiations with the High-Powered Committee heightened public anger.

Witnesses and officials reported that some protesters hurled stones, set fire to the local BJP office, and torched police and paramilitary vehicles.

Security forces responded with tear gas, baton charges, and, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs, opened fire in self-defence. More than 30 police and Central Reserve Police Force personnel were reported injured.

Authorities imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, restricting gatherings of more than five people and requiring written approval for rallies or processions.

A curfew was declared in parts of Leh, and the concluding day of the Ladakh festival was cancelled.

Wangchuk ended his hunger strike after the violence, appealing for calm. Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta said a probe would examine whether outsiders instigated the unrest, while the Home Ministry stated that security forces restored order by late afternoon.

Central officials maintained that they had been holding formal and informal discussions with Ladakh representatives and confirmed that the next meeting of the High-Powered Committee will proceed on October 6.

Demonstrators continue to press for statehood and constitutional protections under the Sixth Schedule, and both local leaders and the Centre have called for peaceful engagement as talks resume.