Violent clashes in Ladakh leave 4 dead, dozens injured

The movement in Ladakh, India, demanding statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule turned violent on Wednesday. Four people were killed, and about 70 others, including 30 police and CRPF personnel, were injured.

The office of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Ladakh was also set on fire. The BJP accused the Congress party of being behind the violence, calling it a dangerous conspiracy. BJP also claimed that Congress wants to create a situation in India similar to Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Philippines.

Indian media reported that attempts were made to present the protests as a “Gen-Z-led movement.”

The protests escalated after environmentalist and social activist Sonam Wangchuk’s 15-day hunger strike. Speaking to the BBC, Wangchuk said she ended her fast after Wednesday’s violence in Leh and appealed to the people to maintain peace.

According to Ladakh’s Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta, a curfew has been imposed in Leh district. Protesters have been demanding full statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

News agency PTI reported that police used tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowd. Videos shared on social media showed vehicles set on fire and clashes taking place.