Ladakh protest: LG reviews security situation in Leh, calls for vigilance

The situation in Ladakh has become extremely concerning amid ongoing protests, which have resulted in four people being killed and more than 80 others injured. The violence erupted during widespread clashes amid a shutdown called in the region.

In response to the deteriorating situation, the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory, Kavinder Gupta, chaired a security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. During the meeting, Gupta emphasized the need for heightened vigilance to maintain peace across Ladakh, as reported by news agency PTI.

The shutdown and protests were initiated by a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) in support of their demand to advance proposed talks with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the grant of statehood to Ladakh.

According to a statement posted on the social media platform X by the Lieutenant Governor’s office, a high-level security review meeting was held to assess the emerging situation across Ladakh. The meeting highlighted the necessity of seamless inter-agency coordination, proactive measures, and heightened vigilance to safeguard peace, security, and public order across the Union Territory.

Senior officers from the police, CRPF, and civil administration attended the meeting, discussing the prevailing law and order situation in detail.

Hundreds of protesters advocating for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule turned violent on Wednesday. The protest escalated with demonstrators setting fire to the BJP office in Leh and several vehicles, prompting authorities to impose a curfew in the town and adjoining areas.

The Centre alleged that the mob violence was incited by “provocative statements” from climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The Modi-led party also suggested that certain “politically motivated” individuals were unhappy with the progress in ongoing talks between the government and Ladakhi groups.

Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk, who had been leading a hunger strike in Leh over the twin demands, called off his hunger strike following the violence. He urged people to restore peace across Ladakh, according to PTI.

(With inputs from PTI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/ladakh-protest-lg-reviews-security-situation-in-leh-calls-for-heightened-vigilance-23595753