Ladakh unrest: Restrictions continue in Leh

Security restrictions remain in place in Leh following the violent unrest on September 24. Under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, the assembly of five or more people is prohibited, and no rallies, marches, or processions can be conducted without prior written approval. Security personnel continue to be deployed across the district to maintain order.

The unrest erupted amid long-standing demands from Ladakh residents for the Union Territory’s inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which provides special provisions for the administration of tribal areas, as outlined in Article 244(2) and 275(1).

The recent violence resulted in the deaths of four individuals, and 44 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest. Among them is prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk, a strong advocate for the Sixth Schedule in Ladakh. Wangchuk had been on a hunger strike, which he ended just before the outbreak of violence. Following the protests, police reportedly opened fire, leading to casualties. Wangchuk has been detained under the National Security Act (NSA) and is currently in Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan, accused of inciting violence.

Speaking on the protests, JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra described the agitation as the outcome of “five years of deceit and unfulfilled commitments.” He alleged that many of the current protesters were the same individuals who had celebrated the abrogation of Article 370 and had previously been used by the government during that time.

“Four people have already lost their lives, and around 90 have been injured. Those protesting against the Government of India and the local administration today are the same individuals who had supported the abrogation of Article 370,” Karra told reporters.

Adding to the debate, political commentator Shashank Sekhar pointed out that Ladakh was granted Union Territory status without the decades-long political movements or intense struggles that many other regions had to endure for similar recognition. “Despite receiving UT status relatively easily, today the same people are back on the streets demanding more, which shows how deep the dissatisfaction and sense of betrayal have become,” he observed.

Even though Ladakh is a Union Territory with special administrative powers, unrest has erupted because residents feel promises regarding Sixth Schedule status remain unfulfilled. The region’s strategic sensitivity also means any decision on special status must be taken very carefully, but the protests reveal the gap between political assurances and the reality felt by people on the ground.

The situation in Leh remains tense, with authorities emphasizing security and strict adherence to restrictions while investigations into the unrest continue.