Ladakh Violence 2025 turned deadly with 4 killed and 59 injured in Leh-

Ladakh,Sep.25,2025: Ladakh Violence 2025 marked one of the darkest days in the region’s history since 1989. Protests demanding full statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule spiraled out of control in Leh on Wednesday-

Clashes between protestors and police left 4 dead and at least 59 injured, including 30 police personnel. Officials fear the death toll could rise as six remain in critical condition.

By evening, flames and thick smoke rose across Leh, as angry groups vandalized public property and set vehicles ablaze.

Government Blames Sonam Wangchuk

Late Wednesday night, the Union Home Ministry issued a sharp statement, directly blaming environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk for the escalation of violence.

The ministry alleged that Wangchuk’s speeches invoked comparisons with global protest movements like the Arab Spring and Nepal’s Gen Z demonstrations, “misguiding the youth of Ladakh.”

“Because of personal ambition and selfish politics, the people of Ladakh are paying a heavy price,” the statement read.

Curfew in Leh and Rising Tensions

As violence intensified, a curfew was imposed in Leh, restricting movement and gatherings. Security forces fired tear gas shells and deployed heavy reinforcements to regain control.

Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta called the incident “a conspiracy rather than a spontaneous act” and vowed strict action against those who incited unrest.

The Demands Behind the Protests

The protests, which led to Ladakh Violence 2025, revolve around four key demands:

• Full statehood for Ladakh
• Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution
• Separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil
• Reservation in employment for locals

While negotiations have been ongoing with the High-Powered Committee, protest leaders argue that progress is too slow and locals feel ignored.

A Timeline of the Deadly Day

• Morning: Protesters gather in large numbers in Leh, shouting slogans and calling for a complete shutdown.
• Noon: Violence erupts as groups vandalize BJP headquarters and government offices.
• Afternoon: Vehicles are set on fire; police respond with tear gas.
• Evening: At least 4 are confirmed dead; dozens injured.
• Night: Union Government blames Wangchuk; curfew announced in Leh.

High-Powered Committee Meeting Rescheduled

The Home Ministry revealed that a crucial High-Powered Committee meeting originally scheduled for October 6 will now be held on September 25–26 to speed up dialogue with protest groups.

The government highlighted past steps, including:

• Raising Scheduled Tribe reservations in Ladakh from 45% to 84%
• Granting one-third reservation for women in local councils
• Recognizing Bhoti and Purgi as official languages
• Beginning recruitment for 1,800 government posts

Historical Context of Ladakh Violence

This was the worst violence in Ladakh since 1989, when three people died in police firing during protests demanding Union Territory status.

Wednesday’s violence now stands as a grim reminder of Ladakh’s fragile peace, even after it became a Union Territory in 2019 following the abrogation of Article 370.

Political Reactions and Blame Game

The BJP accused the Congress party of orchestrating the unrest, calling it a “malicious conspiracy” to destabilize the region like Bangladesh or Nepal.

Congress leaders, meanwhile, accused the BJP government of failing to handle Ladakh’s aspirations democratically.

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said attempts were made to portray the protests as “Gen Z-led,” but investigations revealed them to be politically motivated.

Who is Sonam Wangchuk

Sonam Wangchuk, globally recognized for his environmental work and inspiration behind the film 3 Idiots, has been at the forefront of Ladakh’s movement.

He began a 15-day hunger strike to demand Ladakh’s statehood and constitutional safeguards. After Wednesday’s bloodshed, he announced an end to his strike, appealing to youth to avoid violence.

Why the Sixth Schedule Matters for Ladakh

The Sixth Schedule of India’s Constitution grants special autonomy to tribal regions in states like Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, and Assam.

For Ladakh, this would mean:

• Protection of land and culture
• Greater autonomy for local councils
• Safeguards against demographic changes

Sonam Wangchuk’s Final Appeal to Youth

In an emotional message, Wangchuk said-

“This is the saddest day for Ladakh and for me personally. For five years, we walked the path of peace, but today, violence and arson destroyed our message.”

He urged the youth-

• Stop violence immediately
• Focus on peaceful dialogue
• Avoid giving authorities an excuse to crack down harder

What Lies Ahead for Ladakh

The Ladakh Violence 2025 has exposed deep frustrations among locals about representation, employment, and cultural safeguards.

While the government promises accelerated talks, mistrust remains high. Analysts warn that without genuine autonomy and protections, protests could resurface, risking further instability in the sensitive border region.