Ladakh Protests Background: Violence Erupts in Leh
On September 24, protests over Ladakh’s demand for 6th Schedule status and statehood turned violent in Leh. According to officials, between 5,000 and 6,000 protesters took to the streets, damaging government property, setting vehicles ablaze, and attacking a BJP office. Security forces used tear gas, baton charges and even opened fire in self-defence. Seventeen CRPF personnel and more than 70 civilians were injured during the unrest.
Why Sonam Wangchuk Was Arrested
Ladakh director general of police (DGP) Dr. SD Singh Jamwal defended the arrest of environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk. He claimed that Wangchuk’s protest platform was being used to vitiate peace and disrupt ongoing discussions with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) regarding constitutional safeguards. Jamwal alleged that Wangchuk had “sabotaged” the process by inviting elements who incited violence, prompting his arrest under the National Security Act (NSA).
Pakistan Link Under Investigation
The DGP revealed that investigators are probing a possible Pakistan connection to the unrest. He cited Wangchuk’s past visits abroad and alleged interactions with Islamabad-based officials. Jamwal also confirmed the arrest of a Pakistan Person of Indian Origin (PIO) who was reportedly in touch with Wangchuk and “reporting back across the border.” Records show this individual had attended a Dawn event in Pakistan and also visited Bangladesh. Authorities are also examining potential FCRA violations linked to Wangchuk’s activities.
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‘Attempts to Sabotage 6th Schedule Process’
Jamwal stressed that the central government has been in continuous dialogue with the Leh Apex Body and the KDA about Ladakh’s demands. He alleged that activists with “questionable credibility” tried to hijack these platforms. “Preliminary talks were already planned in Delhi on September 25 and 26, but the hunger protest was made a platform for elements to disrupt peace and law and order,” he said.
Extent of Damage and Casualties
The police reported that the 5,000–6,000-strong crowd caused widespread damage. “CRPF jawans were brutally beaten up; one jawan is still in hospital with a serious spinal injury. Four women police personnel were in the same building when it was set on fire,” Jamwal stated. Firing was done in self-defence, resulting in four deaths. A total of 70–80 security personnel and a similar number of civilians were injured, including a young girl who had to be airlifted to Delhi for advanced treatment.
DGP: ‘I Too Was Attacked’
Jamwal revealed that he himself was attacked during the protests but escaped with minor injuries. “Of the severely injured personnel, 17 were from CRPF and 15 from Ladakh Police. Later, the number of injured rose to 70–80 security personnel and an equal number of civilians. Seven were critically injured; six to seven are still in Ladakh hospital,” he said.
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Arrests and Security Measures
The DGP confirmed that 44 people have been arrested so far, including the alleged ring leaders. “Sonam Wangchuk, the main player, has been sent out under NSA charges,” Jamwal said. He also noted that police deployment and arrangements were based on prior intelligence inputs to manage anti-social elements.
In the days following the clashes, civil society groups in Ladakh have appealed for calm and urged both the Union government and local leaders to resume dialogue. Several political observers noted that the unrest highlights deep public frustration over the slow pace of granting constitutional safeguards and a perceived lack of representation in decision-making. Legal experts also pointed out that any investigation into alleged foreign links must follow due process and be transparent to maintain public trust. Meanwhile, additional security forces have been stationed in sensitive areas of Leh and Kargil to prevent further flare-ups, while talks with the Leh Apex Body and KDA are expected to resume soon.
By The News Update — Updated Sep 27, 2025
