Ladakh witnessed a surge in unrest as protests demanding statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule escalated into violence. Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets of Leh, setting fire to vehicles and the local BJP office, while chanting slogans in support of their demands. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS were imposed to curb assemblies of five or more people, and police, along with paramilitary forces, resorted to teargas to control the situation. The unrest followed a 15-day hunger strike by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who called off his fast amid escalating clashes, urging the youth to maintain peace and prevent further destabilization.
The protest erupted after the health of two participants in a separate 35-day hunger strike deteriorated, leading to their hospitalization. The agitation, led jointly by the Ladakh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has been ongoing for four years, focusing on the demand for Sixth Schedule protections similar to those in northeast India and full statehood for Ladakh. Wangchuk and other leaders emphasized the need for peaceful advocacy, while large crowds marched through Leh, demonstrating their commitment to the cause despite the violence. Former MP and LAB chairperson Thupstan Chhewang returned to lead the joint delegation in upcoming negotiations with the Centre.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has scheduled a fresh round of talks with Ladakh representatives on October 6, aiming to resolve the longstanding demands. The Congress party opted out of LAB deliberations, citing concerns over political influence ahead of Leh Hill Council elections. In Kargil, the KDA called for a complete shutdown in solidarity with the hunger strikers, reflecting the widespread support for advancing the dialogue. Authorities managed to regain control after several hours of clashes, but the events underscored the tensions surrounding Ladakh’s push for constitutional protections and greater autonomy, signaling that careful negotiation will be critical in addressing the region’s aspirations.
