• Source:JND
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Ladakh Protest: At least four people were killed and more than 50 were injured after a protest in Leh over demands for Ladakh’s statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule turned violent on Wednesday. The unrest saw clashes between protestors and security forces, prompting police to use teargas and fire in self-defence.

The agitation, which had been building for days, spiralled out of control when a section of youth pelted stones at government buildings and the BJP office in Leh. Furniture, papers and parts of the complex were set on fire. A security vehicle was also torched, along with other vehicles, adding to the chaos in the town.

ALSO READ: Ladakh Protest: 4 Killed, 30 Injured After Protesters Clash With Police In Leh Over Statehood Demands; BJP Office Set Ablaze | Watch

Ladakh Protest Top Updates

- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) accused climate activist Sonam Wangchuk of provoking the crowd. Officials said his references to movements like the Arab Spring and youth protests in Nepal misled people. The ministry claimed his hunger strike inspired a section of protestors to attack political and government offices.

- Following the violence, Wangchuk ended his 15-day fast and appealed for calm. In a video posted on X, he expressed disappointment, saying his “message of peaceful path failed.” He said the previous day’s hospitalisation of two protestors had triggered anger, which led to Wednesday’s bandh and mass mobilisation.

- Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta announced curfew across Leh district to restore order.

- LG also stated that mob attempted to set a CRPF vehicle on fire with personnel inside and also targeted the vehicle of the DGP of Ladakh.

ALSO READ: Ladakh Protest: Centre Blames Sonam Wangchuk’s ‘Arab-Spring Style Provocative Speech’ For Leh Violence

- According to the MHA, over 30 police officers and CRPF personnel were injured during stone-pelting and mob attacks. The NDTV report cited Official sources as stating that, the total number of injured had crossed 70, with some in critical condition. Appeals for blood donation were issued on social media to support those admitted to hospitals.

- The final day of the four-day annual Ladakh festival was cancelled after the violence escalated. Authorities said the decision was necessary to prevent further gatherings and possible clashes.

- Police and paramilitary forces deployed across Leh used teargas to disperse the mob. After protestors turned violent, officers opened fire in what they described as self-defence. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities said they are assessing the extent of damage to public property, including government and political offices.