Former J-K DGP SP Vaid alleges “political motive” behind Leh violence amid Sonam Wangchuck’s hunger strike
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Former Jammu and Kashmir police chief SP Vaid has voiced strong worries about the recent violence in Leh, which erupted during activist Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike. He claims the clashes, which killed four people and injured dozens, stem from a political conspiracy rather than simple frustration over Ladakh’s demands.
In an interview with , Vaid pointed out the suspicious timing. Talks between the Indian government and Ladakh leaders were set for October 6, with meetings proposed as early as September 25 or 26. “Why did the violence hit on the 24th, right before these discussions?” Vaid asked. He highlighted the damage: burned vehicles, torched public property, and attacks on the BJP office and local Hill Council buildings. Security forces also faced targeted assaults. “This looks like a well-planned plot,” Vaid said, urging authorities to hold perpetrators accountable and charge them under the Public Safety Act for inciting the chaos.
Vaid suggested deeper motives, linking the unrest to Sonam Wangchuk’s past comments praising Nepal’s Gen Z protests and even the Arab Spring uprisings. “Wangchuk celebrated the overthrow of Nepal’s government— it feels like a rooted conspiracy,” he noted. He also criticized opposition parties like Congress for backing stone-pelting and calling for shutdowns, saying they’re exploiting the situation for political gain instead of helping resolve issues.
At the heart of it, Vaid believes Ladakh’s youth have been misled by politicians. Many young people in the region struggle with unemployment and other challenges, but violence won’t fix that. “They think they’re fighting for a just cause, but leaders are using them,” Vaid explained. He advised channeling demands through elected representatives to push for government schemes, job opportunities, and real progress on Ladakh statehood and Sixth Schedule protections.
Sonam Wangchuk started his hunger strike on September 10 to demand greater autonomy for Ladakh, including statehood and safeguards under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The peaceful protest turned violent on September 24, with clashes between demonstrators and police leading to widespread destruction.
The Indian government has stressed its commitment to dialogue. Through the High-Powered Committee and sub-committees, officials have met multiple times with groups like the Apex Body Leh and Kargil Democratic Alliance. These efforts have delivered key wins: boosting reservations for Ladakh’s scheduled tribes from 45% to 84%, adding one-third seats for women in councils, recognizing Bhoti and Purgi as official languages, and starting recruitment for 1,800 jobs.
Still, some politically driven individuals seem unhappy with this progress and are trying to derail the talks, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs. To keep things moving, the government has lined up meetings with Ladakh leaders on September 25 and 26, followed by the full High-Powered Committee session on October 6.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
