Leh: Amid restrictions, the cremation of the bodies of two of the four people killed on September 24, in the violent protest over the demand for statehood and the Sixth Schedule for Ladakh, took place on Sunday.
Leh city wore a deserted look as restrictions imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) remained in force for the fifth day. Police and CRPF were deployed in strength, and roads and intersections were sealed with concertina wire.
Thin vehicular movement was witnessed on the roads, while pedestrian movement was negligible. All shops and commercial establishments remained closed, except pharmacies.
The bodies of Stanzin Namgyal of Igoo and Jigmet Dorjey of Kharanki were taken under heavy police security to the crematorium at 2pm.
Media access was stopped beyond Singay Namgyal Chowk, a landmark in Leh. Neighbours and residents from different parts of Leh arrived at Namgyal’s house this morning to pay their respects.
A small group of youngsters, including some girls, witnessed the funeral with teary eyes, carrying a piece of shining white cloth in their hands at the King Singay Namgyal Chowk. A young boy, who wished not to be named, said the killing of four people had come as a shock to people in Leh. “We are proud Indians, and all we want is constitutional safeguards for Ladakh,” he said.
Restrictions have left hundreds struggling to buy essentials, especially food. Migrant labourers from Doda in Jammu complained of shortages.
“Yesterday, restrictions were eased briefly, and we managed to replenish stocks. If this continues, we will run out of food,” said Farooq Ahmed Wani of Dasu.
The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), spearheading the agitation, postponed a press conference to Monday.
The protest erupted after two elderly participants in Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike were hospitalised.
Wangchuk, an environmentalist and educator, began his 35-day strike on September 10, pressing for statehood and the Sixth Schedule. Though the home ministry scheduled talks with LAB and KDA for October 6, he demanded urgency, warning the youth were growing impatient and might act in ways that could “embarrass India.”
The protest turned violent as mobs vandalised the Ladakh Hill Council building, set fire to the Bharatiya Janata Party office, and damaged vehicles, including one belonging to the police. Security forces opened fire, leaving four dead and 90 injured.
LG pledges to protect people’s rights, cultural identity
Leh, Sep 28: Ladakh Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta on Sunday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the prevailing security situation in curfew-bound Leh town and reassured his commitment to protect people’s rights and cultural identity.
He appealed for calm, cooperation and upholding of Ladakh’s traditions of peace and said the Union Territory’s peace and brotherhood will not be allowed to be disturbed at any cost.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, Director General of Police S D Singh Jamwal, Additional Director General, CRPF, Rajesh Kumar and senior officers of the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), a spokesperson of the Raj Bhavan said.
He said the officers briefed the Lt Governor on the latest developments, preparedness measures, and coordination among agencies to maintain peace and order in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, the Lt Governor underscored the paramount importance of maintaining law and order, reiterating that the administration will not tolerate any attempt to disturb the peace, harmony, and stability of Ladakh.
He issued a strong and clear message to anti-social and disruptive elements, warning them that strict action will be taken against anyone found trying to incite violence or create unrest.
At the same time, the Lt Governor reassured the people of Ladakh of the administration’s complete commitment to safeguarding their rights, aspirations, and cultural identity.
He appealed to the citizens to remain calm, cooperate with the authorities and continue upholding Ladakh’s age-old traditions of peace, brotherhood, and mutual respect.
“Ladakh belongs to its people, and the government stands firmly with the locals in ensuring their safety, security, and prosperity. Together, we will not allow any divisive force to derail the peace and development of this region,” he affirmed.
Gupta also directed security agencies to maintain heightened vigilance, strengthen coordination, and ensure swift response to any emerging challenges. He stressed that the administration’s priority is to protect the interests of the people while ensuring an environment conducive to growth and harmony.
