Dateline: Leh, Ladakh | September 28, 2025
Lead
The fallout from last week’s deadly protests in Ladakh continues to widen, with local political groups suspending talks with the Centre and accusing the Union Territory administration of high-handedness. Four protesters were killed and over 70 injured during demonstrations demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule protections, pushing the region into its worst political crisis since 2019.
Withdrawal from Talks
The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body (LAB) — two umbrella organisations representing Ladakh’s political and religious groups — announced they would no longer participate in talks with the government until certain conditions were met.
These include:
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A judicial inquiry into the police firing,
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Withdrawal of cases against detained activists,
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Restoration of internet services, and
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Assurance of constitutional safeguards for Ladakh’s land, jobs, and cultural identity.
“We cannot sit at the table when our people are being beaten, arrested, and silenced,” said Asgar Ali Karbalai, a senior leader of the KDA. “The Centre must show sincerity, not suppression.”
Crackdown on Activists
Adding fuel to the fire, prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested under charges of unlawful assembly and violation of prohibitory orders. His NGO, the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), also had its foreign funding license revoked by the Ministry of Home Affairs, cutting off international donations.
Police defended their actions, claiming Wangchuk’s speeches had “incited unrest.” However, supporters insist the crackdown is politically motivated. “Targeting Wangchuk is like targeting Ladakh itself. He is a voice for our environment and rights,” said Tsering Dolkar, a student leader from Leh.
Central Government’s Position
The Union Home Ministry has urged calm, stating that it remains open to dialogue but will not tolerate violence. A senior official, speaking anonymously, said:
“We are ready to listen, but constitutional amendments cannot be dictated under threat. Law and order must be restored first.”
The Ministry also argued that Ladakh, as a Union Territory without a legislature, already enjoys focused development attention, with record investments in infrastructure, solar energy, and tourism.
Opposition and National Reactions
The opposition parties in Parliament have seized on the issue, accusing the BJP-led government of ignoring Ladakh’s aspirations. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the events showed “how promises of empowerment after 2019 were betrayed.” The Aam Aadmi Party and Left parties have also demanded a judicial inquiry.
The BJP’s Ladakh unit, however, finds itself in a delicate position. While defending the Centre’s development policies, local leaders privately acknowledge growing resentment among Ladakhis. “We cannot afford to lose people’s trust at this sensitive frontier,” one BJP functionary admitted.
Strategic and Security Concerns
Analysts warn that prolonged unrest in Ladakh could have strategic consequences, given its proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The Indian Army has been strengthening its presence in the region since the 2020 border clashes, but alienating local communities could complicate security management.
“Local support is critical for logistics, intelligence, and morale. If the people feel betrayed, it undermines India’s position vis-à-vis China,” said defense expert Lt. Gen. (Retd.) D.S. Hooda.
Impact on Daily Life
The curfew and internet suspension have disrupted normal life in Leh and Kargil. Traders complain of losses as markets remain closed, while students preparing for competitive exams say the internet blackout has left them stranded.
“Schools are shut, hospitals are short-staffed, and we are cut off from the rest of the world,” said Rigzin Namgyal, a Leh shopkeeper. “How long can this continue?”
Looking Ahead
With protests showing no sign of abating, political observers say the Centre has two options: initiate high-level talks to address core demands, or double down on law-and-order measures. A judicial inquiry into the police firing could serve as a first step toward rebuilding trust.
For now, the people of Ladakh remain caught between promises of development and a deepening sense of disenfranchisement. Whether New Delhi chooses reconciliation or repression may determine not just Ladakh’s future, but the credibility of India’s governance in its most sensitive frontier.
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