Leh, Oct 17: Chief Secretary of Ladakh, Dr Pawan Kotwal, on Friday urged the people to “act responsibly” and maintain peace in the aftermath of the Leh violence on September 24, which left four dead and several injured. He said the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident, to be led by former Supreme Court judge Justice B.S. Chauhan.
Addressing a press conference, Dr Kotwal said the judicial commission will “uncover the truth and ensure such incidents never happen again.” He emphasized that the government has responded positively to public demands and it is now “time for peace, progress, and unity.”
Expressing deep sorrow, Dr Kotwal recalled his hospital visit where doctors performed 11 surgeries overnight, saving several lives. Only five patients remain under treatment, mostly with bone injuries. He also confirmed that most detainees have been released, with only 23 individuals still in judicial custody.
The Chief Secretary thanked community leaders for helping restore normalcy, saying internet services, schools, markets, and tourism activities have resumed. “We cannot afford another incident,” he said, urging people to avoid large gatherings and focus on rebuilding peace.
Dr Kotwal praised Ladakh’s people for their patriotism and contribution to national security through the Ladakh Scouts regiment. “No one can doubt the devotion of Ladakhis to the nation,” he stated.
He informed that the High-Powered Committee (HPC) meeting on Ladakh’s constitutional safeguards will be held soon. “The Government of India has accepted the demand for a judicial inquiry. The next step is to discuss other issues through dialogue in the HPC meeting,” he added.
Dr Kotwal said the administration is considering compensation for families of the deceased. “If an innocent person has suffered, the government is positive about providing compensation as per law,” he said.
On security measures, he explained that the Rapid Action Force (RAF) has been deployed to replace existing forces for better mob control, reducing risks of casualties. “Two normal and two RAF companies are now in place,” he said.
He further informed that the Centre is moving ahead with a proposal to create five new districts in Ladakh, currently under review by the Ministry of Finance.
Highlighting the restoration of internet services, Dr Kotwal said the administration understood the hardships faced by students and traders. “Connectivity is vital for education and business,” he noted.
Dr Kotwal said recruitment processes have begun, with LSSB exams scheduled for November. He added that Ladakh will participate in the WTM London Exhibition to promote tourism. He concluded by acknowledging the role of Goba (traditional village headmen) in maintaining peace and coordination between the people and the administration.
