In Ladakh, tensions are easing after deadly protests rocked the region this week, with Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta promising quick stability and strong protection for local traditions and security.
Gupta shared this update during a public statement on Friday, saying the situation has improved and normalcy should return soon. “Educational institutions here have been temporarily closed, and Section 163 has been imposed,” he noted. “We are confident that the situation will be resolved within a day or two. Ladakh’s traditions and way of life will not be allowed to be harmed.”
The unrest began earlier this week in Leh, where violent clashes left four protesters dead and several others injured. Police fired on demonstrators amid the chaos, sparking widespread anger.
It all started when two people fasting alongside climate activist Sonam Wangchuk fell ill after 15 days of protesting for Ladakh statehood and constitutional protections under the Sixth Schedule. Furious crowds took to the streets, leading Wangchuk to end his fast and call for peaceful, Gandhian-style demonstrations. But his pleas didn’t stop the violence—protesters burned vehicles and buildings in response.
New Delhi acted fast, sending a special envoy to talk with local leaders and calm things down. Gupta also led a high-level security meeting, telling officials to stay on high alert.
Adding fuel to the fire, the central government recently canceled the FCRA license for a key organization run by Wangchuk, following a CBI investigation into alleged violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act. Gupta addressed this directly: “Such action will be taken against people of this kind.”
On claims of foreign meddling in the Ladakh protests, Gupta confirmed that investigators have identified some names and are taking action. “Investigations are ongoing,” he said. He stressed that once calm returns, authorities won’t tolerate any efforts to stir up trouble again.
So far, at least 50 people are in custody as a strict curfew grips Leh. Police and paramilitary forces are patrolling sensitive spots to keep the peace.
The central government insists it’s committed to tackling Ladakh’s concerns through a High-Powered Committee. Still, it accuses Wangchuk of fueling the unrest with provocative speeches. Local groups, however, keep pushing hard for full statehood and Sixth Schedule safeguards to protect the region’s unique culture and environment.
With probes still underway, Ladakh stays on edge but firmly under control. Officials are optimistic that peace will hold in the days ahead.
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