The long-running demand for statehood and constitutional safeguards in Ladakh erupted into deadly violence this week, marking a dramatic escalation in the Himalayan region’s political movement.
On Wednesday, at least four people lost their lives and dozens were injured when protests in Leh spiraled into fierce clashes with security forces. The unrest broke out during a shutdown called by the Apex Body of Leh, drawing hundreds of demonstrators into the streets.
Eyewitnesses reported that angry protesters set fire to police vehicles and a local political office while hurling stones at security personnel. In response, police fired tear gas, used batons and eventually opened fire to regain control of the situation.
Officials confirmed that the agitation has been building for years, with residents demanding full statehood for Ladakh since it was carved out as a Union Territory. Protesters had been staging hunger strikes and peaceful demonstrations, but this was the first time the movement descended into violence.
The timing of the clashes has heightened tensions ahead of a scheduled meeting between Ladakh representatives and the central government on October 6. The talks were expected to address the protesters’ demands, but the bloodshed has cast a shadow over the negotiations and complicated the path forward.
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