Is Curfew Still in Effect in Leh After Violent Protests?
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Synopsis
The curfew in Leh persists following violent protests that resulted in four deaths and numerous injuries. As tensions rise, the Leh Apex Body pushes for urgent talks with the Centre regarding statehood and other demands. The community faces uncertainty as local festivities are canceled amid security concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Curfew continues in Leh following protests.
- Four protesters lost their lives in clashes.
- The Leh Apex Body demands urgent government talks.
- Local celebrations were canceled due to unrest.
- Security measures are strictly enforced by authorities.
Leh, Sep 25 (NationPress) The curfew remains in effect on Thursday in Leh town following the tragic deaths of four protesters and injuries to 40 others in a confrontation with security forces the previous day. This escalation occurred as unruly crowds set fire to vehicles, destroyed the local BJP office, and caused considerable damage to the hill council office.
Phuntsog Stanzin Tsepag, a Congress leader and councillor, has been apprehended for allegedly inciting violence with a provocative speech at a hunger strike venue on Tuesday.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has accused the hunger strikers, including climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, of instigating the violence that erupted on Wednesday.
The mob's actions led to the burning of the BJP office, the Leh Hill Council office, and a CRPF Gypsy, alongside significant damage to vehicles from stone pelting. In response, police and paramilitary forces resorted to firing and employing tear gas and baton charges to safeguard government property and ensure the safety of security personnel and civilians.
The Youth Wing of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) organized a fast to urge the Centre to initiate discussions earlier than the scheduled meeting on October 6, advocating for their four-point demands: Statehood, extension of the Sixth Schedule, separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil, and job reservations.
For four years, the LAB of Leh and KDA of Kargil have jointly driven this agitation, engaging in multiple discussions with the MHA.
Tensions began to escalate on Tuesday evening.
Thupstan Chhewang, a former MP and LAB chairperson who stepped down after the last talks on May 27, has reclaimed his position and is expected to lead the joint delegation in the upcoming negotiations.
The Congress party withdrew from the LAB after some members expressed the need for a non-political representation ahead of the Leh Hill Council elections next month.
In light of the unrest, the concluding day of the four-day annual Ladakh festival was canceled on Thursday. Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Kavinder Gupta was set to attend the festival's closing ceremony, which commenced on Sunday.
According to police reports, the situation in Leh town is currently peaceful, as restrictions imposed by the District Magistrate are being enforced rigorously. Following the violence on Wednesday, L-G Gupta cautioned miscreants of severe consequences and expressed solidarity with the law-abiding residents of Ladakh.
In response to the unrest, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya stated on X, "At a press conference yesterday, Congress councillor from Saspol, Smanla Dorjey Norboo, openly challenged the administration, daring them to deploy more CRPF personnel, insisting that even a larger security presence would not deter demonstrators from reaching the BJP Ladakh office and dragging people out."
"He even declared his intention to personally vandalize the BJP Ladakh office, calling on residents from across Ladakh to converge in Leh on September 24 to execute the attack. Subsequently, on September 24, a mob set fire to the BJP Ladakh office," Malviya added.
Point of View
It is crucial to report the unfolding events in Leh with a balanced perspective. While the tragic loss of life is deeply concerning, it is equally important to acknowledge the voices of the community calling for dialogue and resolution. The situation deserves thorough examination, and the nation must remain engaged in supporting peaceful solutions.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the curfew in Leh?
The curfew in Leh was imposed following violent protests that resulted in four deaths and many injuries during clashes with security forces.
What are the main demands of the Leh Apex Body?
The Leh Apex Body is advocating for statehood, extension of the Sixth Schedule, separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil, and job reservations.
How has the local government responded to the unrest?
The local government has enforced a curfew and strict restrictions to maintain order, while the Lieutenant Governor has warned miscreants of serious action.
What was the outcome of the annual Ladakh festival?
The annual Ladakh festival was canceled on its last day due to the violence and unrest in the region.
What impact has the violence had on community discussions?
The violence has heightened tensions and underscored the urgency for dialogue between local leaders and the central government.
