Restrictions remain in place, LG urges vigilance; schools shut for two days
Leh, Sep 25: A day after violence rocked Ladakh, claiming four lives and leaving over 80 injured, an uneasy calm prevailed across the Union Territory on Thursday as restrictions continued to remain in force. Officials confirmed that the situation was under control and no untoward incidents were reported throughout the day, even as heavy deployment of police and paramilitary forces was maintained in sensitive areas.
Strict prohibitory orders banning the assembly of five or more people remained in effect in Leh and Kargil. Security forces kept a close vigil to prevent any flare-up, and around 50 individuals accused of participating in violent protests have been detained. The bodies of the deceased protesters were handed over to their families.
The unrest stemmed from protests demanding statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule. While the Union Home Ministry alleged that climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s “provocative statements” had triggered the violence, Wangchuk distanced himself from the incidents. Expressing anguish, he said, “This is the saddest day for Ladakh… for five years we have pursued a peaceful path. Violence harms our cause and must stop immediately.” He also denounced attempts to make him a scapegoat, asserting his readiness to face any legal action.
The administration has taken stern steps to restore order. A Congress councillor accused of instigating the protests has been booked, while other political leaders allegedly involved are likely to face action. In Kargil, where the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) had called a parallel shutdown, the day passed peacefully under tight security.
Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta chaired a high-level security review meeting, calling for “heightened vigilance, seamless inter-agency coordination and proactive measures” to maintain peace. Describing Wednesday’s events as “heart-wrenching” and the result of a “conspiracy,” the LG assured residents that the administration would not allow vested interests to derail the region’s peace and development.
“The violence was promptly brought under control and the situation has improved. Out of 90 injured persons, only 19 remain in hospital, and most of them are expected to be discharged soon,” Gupta said. He appealed to the people of Ladakh to remain vigilant and isolate elements trying to disturb harmony. “Some people do not want peace and development. They are trying to exploit youth by drawing references to unrest in neighbouring countries. Such actions will not be tolerated,” he warned.
To prevent further tensions, the district administration has ordered the closure of all schools, colleges, coaching centres and other educational institutions in Leh for two days. Officials said this was a precautionary measure to ensure safety and avoid large gatherings of students.
Despite the tense backdrop, Thursday passed off without incident, offering hope that normalcy is gradually returning. Security officials underlined that while the situation remains fragile, the prompt administrative measures and appeals for peace have helped contain the fallout of Wednesday’s unrest.
With both Leh and Kargil reporting no fresh disturbances, authorities are optimistic that calm will continue in the coming days.
