Tensions rise in Ladakh protests: Police vehicle set on fire, four killed, hundreds injured

The situation has become more heated after a police vehicle was set on fire and violence took place in Ladakh's capital Leh on September 24. In this context, the leaders of the Ladakh agitation have announced to suspend the ongoing talks with the central government.

Leh Apex Body (LAB) Chairman Thupstan Chewang and Co-Chairman Tshering Dorji said at a press conference on Monday (September 29) that it is not possible to hold talks without a judicial investigation into the violence. They demanded that the investigation must be led by a retired Supreme Court judge. At the same time, all those arrested, including internationally renowned educationist, engineer and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, should be released unconditionally.

Tension over Wangchuk's arrest

The central government has arrested Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act, calling her a 'Pakistani spy'. The government alleges that she incited the violence. However, the protest leaders say that Wangchuk has protested through peaceful satyagraha and hunger strike, and has nothing to do with violence.

Leh-Kargil unity

Leaders of two communities in Ladakh—Leh (Buddhist-dominated) and Kargil (Muslim-dominated)—are united on the same demand. Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) leader Sajjad Kargili said in a press conference that they will not compromise on the demand for separate statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule. He also announced that they will not sit for talks until everyone, including Wangchuk, is released.

Demands

The main demands of the people of Ladakh are—

Separate statehood

Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule

Separate Public Service Commission for locals

Increase in one more seat in the Lok Sabha (currently there is only one seat)

Center's response

After learning the position of LAB and KDA, the Union Home Ministry said in a statement at night that the door to talks is open. The Centre has also claimed that positive progress has been made on various issues with the high-powered committee. The next meeting of the talks was scheduled for October 6, but the current situation has made it uncertain.

Shadow of violence

Four people were killed and many others injured in violence in Leh on September 24. Since then, curfew has been in place in the city, although it is being relaxed for a few hours a day.

Complaints from locals

Ladakhi leaders are complaining that their identity has been lost after the abrogation of Article 370. Outsiders are coming and buying land, the demographics are changing. The BJP has not implemented the promise of inclusion in the Sixth Schedule during the elections. As a result, the people feel that they have been betrayed.