Leh (Ladakh): Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 15-day hunger strike after violent clashes broke out during a massive protest in Leh demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule safeguards for Ladakh.
The protests, led largely by students and youth, turned violent near the Hill Council secretariat, where security forces used tear gas and baton charges to disperse demonstrators. The situation escalated into stone pelting and arson, with the BJP office in Leh and several police vehicles set on fire, sending thick plumes of smoke across the city.
Authorities have imposed curfew and restrictions under Section 163 of BNSS to contain the unrest. At least four people have died and over 30 others injured, including both protesters and police personnel.
Wangchuk condemned the violence, urging protesters to maintain peace, warning that bloodshed would harm the cause. He ended his fast, saying the focus should remain on dialogue and non-violent resistance.
The agitation, spearheaded by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and supported by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), reflects Ladakh’s growing frustration with the Centre over delays in meeting demands. Talks between Ladakh representatives and the central government are scheduled soon, but the clashes mark one of the most serious flashpoints in Ladakh’s political movement in recent years.
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