Particle.news
Download on the App Store
26 ARTICLES
·
1h ago

Leh Sees Violent Statehood Protests as BJP Office and Police Vehicle Are Set Ablaze

Talks with Ladakhi leaders are set for October 6 as New Delhi faces mounting pressure to address statehood alongside Sixth Schedule safeguards.

Smoke billows out from the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) Office as it set on fire during a massive protest over the statehood demand and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule, in Leh.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk staged a protest demanding the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian constitution at the Ladakh Bhawan in New Delhion Sunday, October 13, 2024. (Photo by Arvind Yadav/ Hindustan Times)

Overview

  • Police used teargas and baton charges after youths clashed with officers, pelted stones, and torched vehicles in Leh, with additional forces deployed to restore order.
  • Protesters set fire to the BJP office in Leh and a security vehicle outside it, with initial reports indicating no confirmed casualties.
  • The unrest followed the hospitalisation of two participants in a 35-day hunger strike launched on September 10, a campaign led by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who appealed for calm.
  • The Ministry of Home Affairs scheduled the next round of talks with representatives from the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance for October 6, though local leaders had sought earlier, result‑oriented dialogue.
  • Demonstrators also tried to storm the LAHDC office, the Kargil Democratic Alliance announced a shutdown for Thursday, and tensions remain high ahead of local council elections.