Violent Clashes in Leh as Youth-Led Protests Demand Ladakh Statehood

Leh witnessed intense protests led by youth demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule. The demonstrations turned violent, leading to clashes with police, who deployed teargas and baton charges to control the situation.

There were reports of thick smoke rising from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in Leh, which was set ablaze by protestors. A vehicle outside the office was also torched, prompting authorities to deploy additional forces to restore order.

The protests, organised by the youth wing of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), follow a 35-day hunger strike that began on September 10. The strike, which saw two of its 15 participants hospitalised, fueled calls for a shutdown and intensified demonstrations.

The unrest comes ahead of scheduled talks on October 6 between the government and representatives from LAB and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), aimed at addressing demands for statehood and Sixth Schedule protections for Ladakh.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, a key figure in the agitation, expressed dismay over the violence. In a post on X, he urged protestors to maintain peace, stating, “Very sad events in Leh. My message of a peaceful path failed today. I appeal to the youth to please stop this nonsense. This only damages our cause.” Wangchuk also reminded the BJP of its unfulfilled promise to grant statehood to Ladakh, emphasising that meeting these demands would benefit both the region and the party.

The LAB has vowed to continue its hunger strike until the demands are met, with co-chairman Chering Dorjey previously warning that delays in talks could escalate tensions further. “

The call for statehood has persisted since Ladakh was designated a Union Territory in 2019, with locals seeking greater autonomy and constitutional safeguards.