Ladakh Unrest: Curfew Imposed in Violence-Hit Leh as LG Kavinder Gupta Warns of Conspiracy
In a deeply troubling turn of events, the Union Territory of Ladakh has been rocked by violent protests demanding statehood and constitutional safeguards. Following intense clashes in Leh district, a strict curfew has been imposed to prevent further loss of life and property. Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has alleged that the violence was not spontaneous but part of a larger conspiracy to destabilize the region. This article explores the background, key developments, and implications of the unrest, especially for residents in Leh, Kargil, Zanskar, Nubra, Padam, Changtang, Drass, and Lamayuru.
What Sparked the Violence in Leh?
The unrest began on September 24, 2025, during a shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB), which has been leading a multi-year agitation for statehood and Sixth Schedule inclusion. The protest escalated when demonstrators clashed with police, torched vehicles, and vandalized government buildings.
Key incidents:
- BJP office in Leh was set ablaze
- Hill Council headquarters was vandalized
- Police vehicles were damaged
- Four civilians died, including one Nepali national
- Over 45 people injured, including 22 police personnel
The violence coincided with the 35-day hunger strike led by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, whose deteriorating health triggered emotional reactions among youth supporters.
LG Kavinder Gupta’s Statement: “This Was a Conspiracy”
Lt. Governor Kavinder Gupta addressed the public, expressing sorrow over the loss of lives and condemning the violence. He stated:
“This was not a spontaneous outburst. It was a well-orchestrated conspiracy to disturb Ladakh’s peaceful atmosphere. We will not spare those responsible.”
He emphasized that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, violence and arson will be met with strict legal action. Gupta directed police and district officials to identify and prosecute those behind the unrest.
Curfew and Security Measures Across Ladakh
To contain the situation, the administration imposed an indefinite curfew in Leh. Additional restrictions were placed in surrounding regions:
- Kargil: Shutdown called by Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) in solidarity with Leh protests
- Zanskar, Nubra, Padam, Changtang, Drass, Lamayuru: Heavy deployment of paramilitary forces
- Section 163 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita invoked in Kargil, banning public gatherings, speeches, and use of loudspeakers without permission
Over 50 individuals have been detained so far, and investigations are underway to determine if foreign elements were involved in the violence.
🔍 Why Ladakh Is Demanding Statehood and Sixth Schedule
Since its separation from Jammu & Kashmir in 2019, Ladakh has been governed as a Union Territory without a legislative assembly. Local groups argue this setup:
- Undermines democratic representation
- Threatens land and job security for locals
- Lacks constitutional safeguards for tribal communities
The Sixth Schedule provides autonomy to tribal areas, protecting cultural identity and land rights. Both LAB and KDA have been pressing for its implementation to safeguard Ladakh’s unique socio-cultural fabric.
Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike: A Turning Point
Renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk began a hunger strike on September 10, 2025, demanding constitutional safeguards for Ladakh. His deteriorating health and hospitalization of two fellow strikers on September 23 triggered emotional protests.
Wangchuk urged youth to remain peaceful, but the situation quickly escalated. The Centre later blamed “provocative statements” for inciting violence, while Wangchuk called for preponement of talks scheduled for October 6.
Political Fallout and Blame Game
The violence has sparked political blame games:
- BJP accused Congress Councilor Tsepag of inciting violence
- Congress and local bodies denied involvement, blaming administrative negligence
- Centre reiterated commitment to Ladakh’s aspirations but condemned the violence
The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that talks with Ladakhi representatives will continue, but warned against politically motivated disruptions.
📅 Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Sep 10, 2025 | Sonam Wangchuk begins hunger strike |
| Sep 23, 2025 | Two strikers hospitalized; LAB youth wing calls for protest |
| Sep 24, 2025 | Shutdown turns violent; 4 killed, 45+ injured |
| Sep 24, 2025 (Night) | LG Kavinder Gupta imposes curfew in Leh |
| Sep 25, 2025 | 50+ detained; curfew extended to Kargil and other towns |
| Oct 6, 2025 | Next round of talks scheduled between Centre and Ladakhi groups |
Implications for Ladakh’s Future
This unrest has reignited national attention on Ladakh’s political status. Key questions remain:
- Will the Centre agree to statehood or Sixth Schedule inclusion?
- Can peace be restored without compromising democratic rights?
- Will the curfew and detentions lead to further alienation?
The coming weeks will be crucial, especially with the October 6 talks on the horizon.
Final Thoughts: A Region at Crossroads
Ladakh, known for its serene landscapes and resilient people, now finds itself at a political and social crossroads. The curfew in Leh, the tragic loss of lives, and the allegations of conspiracy have shaken the region’s stability. As the Centre prepares for dialogue, the people of Ladakh hope for meaningful constitutional safeguards that honor their identity, autonomy, and aspirations.
For now, peace remains the priority. But the demand for statehood and Sixth Schedule inclusion is louder than ever—and the nation is watching.
