Massive protests erupted in Leh on Wednesday morning as youth-led demonstrators clashed with the police over demands for statehood. As the demonstrations turned violent, authorities used teargas and baton charges to control the crowd.

BJP Office Attacked, Police Reinforced

Protestors gathered in large numbers, and in the chaos, a BJP office in Leh was set on fire. Additionally, a vehicle outside the building was also burnt, prompting authorities to deploy additional security forces. Smoke rose from the office as demonstrators surrounded the premises, as shown in visuals shared by news agency ANI.

Protests Ahead of Government Talks

These protests came ahead of a new round of talks scheduled for October 6 between the government and Ladakh representatives, including members of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). Demonstrators aim to pressure the government to extend the Sixth Schedule and grant statehood to Ladakh.

According to PTI, the youth wing of the LAB started a 35-day hunger strike on September 10. During the strike, two of the 15 participants were hospitalised, which further escalated the protests and prompted a shutdown by the youth wing.

Furthermore, the LAB has vowed to continue the hunger strike until their demands, including statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, are met.

Leaders Call for Calm Amid Rising Tensions

LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjey told PTI, “Our protest is peaceful, but people are getting impatient. The situation may get out of our hands... The talks have already been delayed.”

Prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is part of the ongoing agitation, reminded authorities of the BJP’s statehood promise. He said, “If they fulfil their promise, Ladakh will vote for them and make them victorious. They will benefit the most, and vice versa. So we hope they will hold meaningful talks.”

After the clashes in Leh, Wangchuk appealed for peace, tweeting, “VERY SAD EVENTS IN LEH. My message of peaceful path failed today. I appeal to youth to please stop this nonsense. This only damages our cause,” alongside a video of himself.

Longstanding Demand for Statehood

Demands for statehood for Ladakh have continued since the region became a Union Territory in 2019. Protestors are seeking greater autonomy and political recognition, and tensions have risen as talks with the Centre remain pending, prompting the youth to take to the streets once again.