Leh, Ladakh – In the wake of recent unrest, the Ladakh government has affirmed its commitment to addressing the aspirations of the Ladakhi people through open dialogue and constructive engagement. Government officials have described the people of Ladakh as "peace-loving patriots" and have expressed a desire to start the dialogue process soon.
The statement comes after violent clashes on September 24, 2025, in which security forces allegedly fired at protestors, resulting in casualties and injuries. These protestors were demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh. Following the unrest, Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) called off scheduled talks with a high-powered Union home ministry committee and demanded an inquiry by a retired Supreme Court judge.
Pawan Kotwal, the Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, addressed the media in Leh, emphasizing the government's unwavering commitment to the well-being of Ladakh's residents. Kotwal stated that the government has always desired open and constructive dialogue and has never avoided meetings. He also noted that the land, resources, jobs, and livelihoods of Ladakhis would remain protected.
Kotwal highlighted progress made through previous dialogues, including increased reservations for Ladakh Scheduled Tribes from 45% to 85%, one-third reservation for women in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, and protection of Bhoti and Purgi languages.
The Chief Secretary addressed concerns regarding solar parks, industrialization, and environmental degradation, reassuring the public that the government is committed to developing a carbon-neutral Ladakh. He stressed that no project would be undertaken without the consultation and consent of local communities, and that there has been no mining activity in Ladakh.
Kotwal also addressed the detention of individuals following the September 24 violence. Out of 70 people detained, 30 have been released, with the remaining 40 in judicial custody and to be released per court orders. While refraining from directly naming climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) after the clashes, Kotwal stated his confidence that investigations would reveal certain leaders acted negatively and destructively.
The Ladakh administration has alleged that certain groups deliberately derailed peace efforts and misled the public, resulting in the recent violence in Leh. Kotwal said that despite the government's readiness for dialogue, a few leaders worked with a premeditated approach to disrupt the talks for personal and political gain. He added that the entire episode could have been avoided if some leaders had acted responsibly and called off the hunger strike.
The Congress party has also weighed in on the situation, with leaders of the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) calling for peaceful dialogue to resolve the issues. They described the people of Ladakh as peace-loving and patriotic, accusing the BJP and the central government of ignoring the legitimate demands of the people of Ladakh. They also condemned the use of excessive force during the protests.
