Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Leh on Thursday, 30 April for a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Ladakh, announcing he will join devotees in paying respects to the sacred relics of Lord Buddha on the occasion of Buddha Purnima on Friday, 1 May. The visit marks Shah's first trip to Ladakh since protests over statehood demands turned violent in September last year.

Shah's Statement on Buddha Purnima

Posting on X, Shah described the occasion as historic for the region. "Tomorrow will be a historic day for Ladakh, when, on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha will be available for the people of Ladakh to pay their respects," he wrote.

He added: "I consider myself fortunate that I, too, will have the rare opportunity tomorrow to have darshan of these holy relics." Shah also noted that he held a meeting with Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena and concerned officials to ensure the relics remain accessible for darshan over the next two weeks.

Piprahwa Relics Draw Large Crowds in Leh

The relics in question are the Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha, which have drawn large gatherings in Leh since their arrival. The 2569th Buddha Purnima provides a significant occasion for devotees across the region to pay homage. Lieutenant Governor Saxena, who welcomed Shah on arrival alongside senior government officials, elected representatives, and local residents — many dressed in traditional attire — underscored the significance of the visit.

"The Home Minister's visit and his vision for the development of Ladakh shall motivate us to work towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Ladakh," Saxena said.

First Visit Since September Protests

Notably, this is Shah's first visit to Ladakh since September last year, when protests over demands for statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule turned violent, leaving four protesters dead and more than 80 others injured, according to reports. The Centre has since indicated willingness to engage in dialogue with Ladakh representatives to address concerns around the region's unique environment and cultural heritage.

Development Projects on the Agenda

Beyond the religious occasion, Shah is also scheduled to launch major dairy and cooperative sector projects during his two-day stay in Ladakh. The visit is being seen as part of a broader effort by the Centre to signal engagement with the region amid lingering political sensitivities over Ladakh's constitutional status.

With dialogue on statehood demands still ongoing, Shah's presence at the Buddha Purnima observance and his push on development projects are expected to set the tone for the Centre's approach to Ladakh in the months ahead.