Leh Violence: Four Killed, 70 Injured; Restrictions Imposed Under BNS Act

Leh — At least four people were killed and more than 70 others injured on Wednesday after protests in Leh spiralled into violent clashes with security forces, prompting the District Magistrate to impose prohibitory orders across the town.

Confirming the casualties, Leh Hill Development Council chairman Chering Dorjay said the clashes turned deadly as demonstrators pelted stones, torched vehicles—including one belonging to the CRPF—and attempted to set fire to the Hill Council Secretariat and the BJP office.

District Magistrate Romil Singh Donk invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNS) Act, 2023, citing a “serious threat to public peace and human life.” The order bans rallies, processions, loudspeakers, and gatherings of five or more people without prior approval, and will remain in effect until further notice. Security forces have been directed to strictly enforce the restrictions.

The violence erupted during a march in solidarity with hunger strikers demanding Sixth Schedule status, statehood, and protection of Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem. Witnesses said the protest escalated when a section of the crowd tried to storm the Secretariat, forcing police to use tear gas and baton charge. When the mob intensified attacks, security forces opened fire to restore order. Officials confirmed that more than three dozen personnel were also injured, some critically.

The hunger strike, led by the Apex Body and now in its third week, has seen the health of elderly participants deteriorate. News of their hospitalisation further inflamed public anger. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had joined the strike, later appealed for calm, stressing that “Gandhian, peaceful methods” are the only way forward.

In the wake of the unrest, authorities cancelled the concluding day of the Leh Festival, which was to be attended by the Lieutenant Governor. The event, considered a major cultural showcase for the region, was called off due to security concerns.

Meanwhile, politics over the clashes has intensified. BJP leader Amit Malviya accused Congress councillor Phuntsog Stanzin Tsepag of instigating the violence, posting pictures on X in support of his claim. Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah commented that Ladakhis “feel betrayed” after being denied statehood, drawing parallels with unfulfilled promises to Jammu and Kashmir.

Authorities said additional forces have been deployed and heightened security measures will remain in place to prevent further flare-ups.

With inputs from IANS