Leh, Sep 24 (NationPress) Tensions escalated on Wednesday as clashes broke out between police and protesting youths in this region. The demonstrators demanded expedited discussions between the Centre and Ladakh representatives regarding their calls for inclusion in the 6th Schedule, statehood, and safeguarding the delicate ecosystem of the area.

The unrest was sparked by the declining health of two individuals from a group of 15 who were participating in a hunger strike; they were subsequently hospitalized. In light of the violence, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk opted to end his fast and urged for a peaceful dialogue.

Wangchuk, who had been fasting as part of the ongoing protests organized by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body, made his announcement following the eruption of violent confrontations in various areas of Ladakh.

He called upon the youth and the general populace to uphold peace and refrain from violent actions, emphasizing that the fight for Ladakh’s rights should remain non-violent.

“Our movement will only succeed if it is grounded in peace and Gandhian principles,” he stated.

Wangchuk also urged law enforcement and security personnel to avoid using excessive force, particularly regarding the deployment of tear gas on civilians, which could exacerbate the situation.

He highlighted that preserving lives was more crucial than continuing his fast.

On Wednesday morning, conflicts arose in Leh town as protestors clashed with police, throwing stones at officials.

A large number of protestors marched through Leh today, demanding statehood and constitutional protections. The frustrated crowd vandalized the BJP office in Leh, hurled stones at police, and even set a police vehicle ablaze.

In response, law enforcement resorted to tear gas and lathi charges to disperse the agitated crowds.

This marked the first instance of such clashes in recent memory within Ladakh.

The violence unfolded against the backdrop of imminent discussions with the government. The Centre has scheduled a meeting with Ladakh representatives on October 6 to continue negotiations regarding the demands of Ladakh’s residents.

Ladakh was established as a separate Union Territory in August 2019 following the abrogation of Article 370 and the division of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Initially, many in Leh, including Sonam Wangchuk, welcomed the decision.

However, within a year, residents expressed growing concerns over what they perceived as a political vacuum under the Lieutenant Governor's administration.

This discontent led to extensive protests and hunger strikes.

For the first time, political and religious factions from both the Buddhist-majority Leh and Muslim-majority Kargil united under a collaborative platform: The Apex Body of Leh and the KDA.

The 15-day hunger strike attracted significant attention throughout Ladakh, with locals rallying in support of their demands for constitutional protections under the Sixth Schedule, statehood, and environmental preservation.

Nevertheless, the escalation of violence compelled Wangchuk to terminate his hunger strike.

Leaders of the KDA and various trade organizations have already announced plans for intensified protests, including a 'chakka jam' in the near future.