New Delhi: Leh witnessed a surge of violence this week as protests demanding statehood and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh spiraled out of control, leaving four people dead and more than 80 injured.

The unrest began with a hunger strike led by activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been pressing for statehood and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to secure land, job, and resource rights for locals. The demonstrations, initially peaceful, turned violent as crowds clashed with police, set vehicles ablaze, and vandalized public property, including the local BJP office and a police van. Security forces responded with tear gas and live fire to disperse the mob.

Authorities have imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, banning public gatherings in Leh. Curfews and heightened security measures are in place to prevent further escalation.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said the situation was brought under control within hours and stressed that the government has been in continuous talks with Ladakh’s Apex Body in Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance. The next round of formal discussions between the High-Powered Committee and local representatives is scheduled for October 6.

Protesters argue that Ladakh, stripped of its statehood when Article 370 was revoked in 2019, has been left vulnerable without legislative power or constitutional protections. Their demands include statehood, Sixth Schedule inclusion, and stronger guarantees to protect Ladakh’s fragile environment and indigenous rights.

While the government has accused local leaders of making provocative remarks that fueled the unrest, Wangchuk described the violence as an outburst of frustration among the youth, who fear losing control over their land and future.

With trust in official negotiations eroding, tensions remain high in the Himalayan region. The outcome of the October 6 talks is likely to determine whether the situation calms or spirals into further unrest.