Tensions in Ladakh remain high after recent violence, as local groups push back against the Indian government. The Leh Apex Body announced Monday that it will pause all talks with the Centre until peace returns to the region.
Chairman Thupstan Chhewang urged the Centre and the Union Territory administration to tackle the “atmosphere of fear, grief, and anger” gripping Ladakh. “We’ve all agreed: Without restoring peace in Ladakh, no discussions can happen,” Chhewang said.
In a linked move, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) warned the Centre that it’s pushing away Ladakh’s people. The group called for the immediate release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and other detainees from the Leh violence last week.
Both the KDA and Leh Apex Body have led protests demanding statehood for Ladakh and other key changes. They hold the UT administration responsible for the deaths of four protesters and injuries to more than 70 people, including security personnel.
KDA member Sajjad Kargili stressed the need for Wangchuk’s unconditional release, along with the young people arrested after the clashes. He made it clear: Granting statehood and including Ladakh under the 6th Schedule protections are “non-negotiable” demands.
The trouble erupted on September 24 in Leh, when a rowdy crowd threw stones and set fires. Four protesters died, and the violence injured dozens. The mob burned a CRPF vehicle—trying to trap and harm the officers inside—along with the local BJP office and the Leh Apex Body’s office. They also smashed the Director General of Police’s vehicle.
Wangchuk, a well-known Ladakh activist, had been on a hunger strike since September 10 to highlight the region’s issues. He ended it that same day as the unrest broke out in Leh.
Authorities arrested Wangchuk under the National Security Act and moved him to a jail in Jodhpur. The Ministry of Home Affairs also revoked the FCRA registration for SECMOL, the students’ educational and cultural group he founded, over alleged serious violations.
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