Leh Ladakh Protest Overview

Protests in Leh, Ladakh, demanding statehood and the extension of Sixth Schedule protections, turned violent, resulting in casualties and injuries. The situation escalated with the BJP office being torched, prompting significant measures by the local administration and reactions from political figures.

Key Events

• Police firing resulted in four deaths and at least 50 injuries.
• Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 35-day hunger strike following the violence.
• The BJP office in Leh was set ablaze.
• Assembly of four or more people was restricted by the Leh administration.

Background and Reasons for Protest

• The protests were fueled by unmet promises and demands for statehood and protections under the Sixth Schedule.
• A strike was called by student and youth organizations, exacerbated by the hospitalization of two elderly hunger strikers.

Reactions and Statements

• Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti expressed support for the protesters, highlighting feelings of betrayal by the Centre.
• Wangchuk condemned the violence, urging for peaceful protests and acknowledging the frustration among youths.
• Wangchuk referenced a history of pent-up anger and drew parallels with protests in Nepal.

Government and Security Response

• Security forces confirmed four deaths and 56 injuries, with five critically injured.
• There were calls for a high-level delegation from the Home Ministry to engage with protest leaders.

Political and Social Implications

• The protests reflect broader dissatisfaction with the Union Territory model and the unmet promises of statehood.
• There are concerns about the stability of the region and potential impacts on national security.