Leh: Blaming vested interests for triggering violence during the ongoing statehood protests, Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta on Wednesday announced the imposition of curfew across Leh district to prevent further bloodshed.
Gupta said those behind the violence will be identified and dealt with strictly under the law. “The curfew has been enforced as a precautionary step. Lives have already been lost, and I extend my condolences to the bereaved families. All necessary measures are being taken to avoid more casualties,” he said while addressing the people of Ladakh.
The LG asserted that violence in any form would not be tolerated and directed the police and district administration to identify and act firmly against those disturbing peace or damaging property. He alleged that the unrest was part of a conspiracy to destabilize Ladakh’s peaceful atmosphere.
Appealing for calm, Gupta urged residents not to fall prey to elements seeking to disrupt harmony and public order.
The clashes, which broke out during a shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) — spearheading the five-year-long agitation for statehood and Sixth Schedule status — left four people dead and over 45 injured, including 22 police personnel.
Amid the violence, protesters set ablaze a BJP office, a police vehicle, and several cars.
