Rahul Gandhi has called for a fair judicial investigation into the deadly shooting in Leh on September 24, where security forces killed four protesters, including a respected Kargil War veteran. The incident has sparked outrage in Ladakh, with Gandhi accusing the BJP government of betraying the region’s people.
Tsewang Tharchin, a retired Ladakh Scouts soldier honored for his bravery in the Kargil War, died in the firing. Protesters had turned violent that day, setting fire to a CRPF vehicle in an attempt to trap and burn soldiers inside. They also torched local offices of the BJP and the Leh Apex Body, and smashed the vehicle of Ladakh’s Director General of Police, who escaped with minor injuries.
In a post on X, Gandhi shared his heartbreak: “Father a soldier, son also a soldier—those whose blood runs with patriotism. Yet the BJP government took the life of the country’s brave son by shooting him, just because he stood up for Ladakh and his rights. The father’s pained eyes are just asking one question—is this the reward for serving the country today?”
He went on to demand justice: “Our demand is that there must be a fair judicial inquiry into these murders that took place in Ladakh, and the guilty must be given the strictest possible punishment. Modi ji, you have betrayed the people of Ladakh. They are demanding their rights—engage in dialogue, stop the politics of violence and fear.”
Authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in Leh right after the clashes to restore order. On Tuesday, they relaxed it from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and officials reported the time passed without issues. The staggered relaxations aim to ease tensions in the hill town.
Adding to the unrest, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk faces detention under the National Security Act. Officials moved him to Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan, claiming he stirred up the violence during the Ladakh protests.
The Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance have now withdrawn from talks with the central government. They say the current atmosphere of fear, grief, and anger makes dialogue impossible. The groups want the unconditional release of Wangchuk and other young protesters held after the Leh clashes. They also blame the Ladakh administration for letting the law and order situation spiral out of control.
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