Protests in Leh turn violent over demand for full statehood to Ladakh

• Protesters set fire to BJP office

• Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk on hunger strike for 15 days

Leh (Ladakh) – Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike for the past 15 days, demanding full statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. In support of Wangchuk, a large number of students took to the streets. Clashes broke out between the protesters and the Police. Stones were pelted at the Police. Vehicles, including those of the Central Reserve Police Force, were set ablaze. Other public property was also damaged. The Police responded with tear gas and baton charges to disperse the protesting students. The situation is currently reported to be under control.

Among the protesters’ demands were two Lok Sabha seats for Ladakh and recognition of the region’s tribal communities as ‘Scheduled Tribes’.

Environmental expert Sonam Wangchuk

On 5.8.2019, Article 370 was abrogated and Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated, with Ladakh being declared a separate Union Territory. Now, there is growing demand for Ladakh to be granted full statehood.

Editorial Perspective

Security agencies must investigate whether such agitations are being fuelled to destabilise India.