Leh, Sept 24 : The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday the unrest in Leh linked to a hunger strike initiated by social activist Sonam Wangchuk on September 10, demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh.
According to the MHA, the Government of India has been actively engaged with the Apex Body Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance through the High Powered Committee (HPC) and its sub-committee, holding multiple formal and informal meetings with leaders.
The dialogue process, the ministry said, has resulted in significant outcomes, including an increase in reservations for Ladakh Scheduled Tribes from 45% to 84%, the introduction of one-third women reservations in the councils, the declaration of Bhoti and Purgi as official languages, and the initiation of recruitment for 1,800 posts.
The ministry added that despite these developments, certain politically motivated individuals sought to sabotage the dialogue process. The next HPC meeting is scheduled for October 6, with additional meetings planned for September 25 and 26 with Ladakhi leaders.
The MHA statement noted that Wangchuk continued his hunger strike despite advice from several leaders to call it off, and allegedly misled the public by referring to Arab Spring-style protests and Gen Z movements in Nepal.
On September 24, around 11:30 am, a mob, reportedly motivated by Mr. Wangchuk’s statements, left the hunger strike venue and attacked a political party office and the office of the Chief Executive Council (CEC) in Leh. The mob set offices on fire, attacked security personnel, and torched a police vehicle. More than 30 police and CRPF personnel were injured during the unrest. Police resorted to firing in self-defence, resulting in some casualties. The situation was reportedly brought under control by 4 pm.
The ministry clarified that the mob’s actions were guided by Mr. Wangchuk’s provocative statements. Amid the violence, he reportedly called off his hunger strike.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to the aspirations of the people of Ladakh and said it will continue to provide adequate constitutional safeguards.(KNS)
