Is the Government Responsible for Unrest in Ladakh? Udit Raj Reacts to Mehbooba Mufti’s Comments
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Synopsis
In light of recent protests in Leh, Congress leader Udit Raj blames the government for unrest, not the locals. As Mehbooba Mufti raises awareness about youth demands, the situation escalates, revealing deep-rooted governance issues.
Key Takeaways
- Governance failures are blamed for unrest in Ladakh.
- Udit Raj and Mehbooba Mufti highlight youth demands for justice.
- Protests indicate a generational awakening among India's youth.
- Local complaints are tied to broader systemic issues.
- Immediate government action is essential to prevent further unrest.
New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) Congress leader Udit Raj sharply reacted to PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti’s remarks regarding the protests in Leh, asserting that the ongoing issues in Ladakh stem from governance shortcomings rather than local discontent. He emphasized that persistent misleading statements from officials, particularly from the BJP, could ignite unrest nationwide.
“The current situation in Leh is not attributable to the local populace but rather to governmental failures. If immediate actions are not taken and these falsehoods persist, PM Modi, unrest may engulf the entire country,” Udit Raj warned.
In a related context, Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput shared similar concerns regarding the escalating youth discontent, stating, “There are Gen Zs protesting throughout the nation, not just in Leh. Today, young people demand development and job-oriented growth. They seek relief from unemployment and acknowledgment. Yet, the Bharatiya Janata Party government appears to be surrendering their rights to a select few industrial groups, even before multinational corporations and in front of the United States.”
Recently, Mehbooba Mufti has garnered national attention by associating youth protests in Leh and beyond with a larger generational awakening.
On X, she expressed: “From Uttarakhand to Ladakh & across the border in Kashmir, Gen Z is on the rise. When your future seems dim and your aspirations are crushed - resistance transcends borders. These are youths who have worked diligently for a future, adhered to rules, and clung to a glimmer of hope.”
She characterized the unrest not as isolated events but rather as indicators of systemic failures, asserting that young individuals are demanding accountability, opportunities, dignity, and justice.
“This serves as a wake-up call for our nation, India, and even our neighboring Pakistan,” she stated.
In the protests in Leh, violence erupted following a hunger strike by locals demanding statehood and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, leading to turmoil as two elderly individuals fell ill. Reports indicate that four individuals were killed in police firing, numerous buildings, including a BJP office, were set ablaze, and curfews were enforced.
Mufti has also criticized the Centre for its “erroneous policies,” warning that Ladakh risks transforming into an “open jail.” She cautioned that residents are anxious about losing their land, cultural identity, and local governance, asserting that mere symbolic “jumlas” (hollow promises) will not suffice.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing unrest in Ladakh as a reflection of broader systemic issues rather than isolated incidents. The demands for justice, accountability, and development echo across the nation, highlighting the urgent need for government responsiveness and engagement with the youth.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protests in Leh?
The protests were ignited by a hunger strike demanding statehood and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
Who is Udit Raj?
Udit Raj is a Congress leader who has spoken out about governance failures contributing to unrest in Ladakh.
What are Mehbooba Mufti's views on the situation?
Mehbooba Mufti believes the youth protests signify a broader generational awakening and a demand for justice and accountability.
What are the consequences of the unrest?
The unrest has led to violence, curfews, and significant concerns about the future and rights of Ladakh's residents.
How has the government responded to the protests?
The government has faced criticism for its policies, with accusations of failing to address the needs and rights of the local population.
