Ladakh LG Says Normalcy Restored in Leh Following Protests
Ladakh: Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta stated that markets in Leh have been open for the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. over the past four days, and vehicular movement has returned to normal following recent unrest. Commercial vehicles are also permitted to operate today.
The protests on September 24 were initially sparked by demands for statehood and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule, which escalated into clashes with police officials.
The LG confirmed that all educational institutions up to the eighth grade have resumed operations.
“Within a day or two, normalcy will be fully restored. The events of September 24 were deeply painful and tragic, and such incidents should not occur again. We are taking steps to ensure they don’t,” he said.
On the arrest of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, the LG remarked, “Action has been taken based on evidence. It is their right to approach the courts. While fundamental rights are protected, any action will follow the evidence. Many protestors have been released or granted bail, and those found guilty will face consequences. A magistrate inquiry has also been initiated into the violent clashes of September 24, given Ladakh’s sensitive border status.”
He added, “We are committed to preventing such incidents in the future. We urge citizens to report any unlawful activity so that culprits can be held accountable. Dialogue remains the only path to resolution.”
Gupta also noted that the central government and the Ministry of Home Affairs had invited the apex body for dialogue on September 22 and again until October 6.
