Four Dead, Dozens Injured as Tensions Escalate Against Central Rule in Union Territory
Curfew Imposed in Leh Following Deadly Clashes
Ladakh’s Lieutenant Governor, Kavinder Gupta, has declared a curfew across Leh district after violent protests broke out over the long-standing demand for statehood and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh. The unrest has resulted in four deaths and over 70 injuries, with many reported in critical condition.
What Triggered the Violence?
The protests reflect growing frustration among locals over direct central rule since Ladakh was carved out as a Union Territory in 2019, following the abrogation of Article 370. Wednesday’s unrest marked one of the most violent escalations yet.
Key Incidents from the Clashes:
- Mob attacked police vehicles and the BJP headquarters in Ladakh.
- Protesters set the BJP office on fire and burned multiple vehicles.
- According to the Lt Governor, the crowd attempted to burn CRPF personnel alive inside their vehicle.
- The vehicle of Ladakh DGP was also attacked with stones.
- Over 30 police and CRPF personnel were injured in the violence.
- Social media appeals were made for blood donations for the injured.
Government Response & Accusations
Lt Governor Gupta termed the violence a “conspiracy” and stated that those who instigated the protests are “responsible for the deaths and destruction.”
“Those who incited the mob will be held accountable,” he said during a press briefing.
He added that the curfew is a precautionary measure to prevent further unrest.
Local Leaders Allege Excessive Force
Local leaders and activist groups have accused security forces of using disproportionate force, leading to high casualties. They have appealed for calm but demanded a transparent investigation into the use of firearms on civilians.
Background: Growing Discontent in Ladakh
Since being made a Union Territory, Ladakh has witnessed:
- Loss of political autonomy
- Concerns over land, jobs, and cultural preservation
- Demands for inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution
- Massive protests and hunger strikes
Unified Protest Across Leh and Kargil
In a rare show of unity, political and religious groups from both Buddhist-majority Leh and Muslim-majority Kargil have formed the Apex Body of Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) to jointly push for:
- Full statehood
- Constitutional safeguards
- Job and land protection under Sixth Schedule
Failed Talks with Centre
Despite forming a high-level committee, the Centre has failed to meet the demands of Ladakhi leaders. In March 2025, a delegation met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, but talks collapsed shortly afterward.
“The Home Minister told us that creating Ladakh as a Union Territory was a mistake. He rejected our demand for statehood and Sixth Schedule protections,” one leader told the leading news channel.
Current Situation
- Leh remains under curfew with heavy deployment of security forces.
- Tensions remain high as local leaders continue to demand justice and autonomy.
- The Centre has assured efforts to restore order, but trust remains eroded.
As the situation in Ladakh grows more volatile, the demand for statehood and constitutional protection continues to gain momentum. The violence in Leh signals a critical moment for the Union Territory — one that calls for urgent dialogue and resolution before the unrest spirals further.
