The Indian Himalayan region of Ladakh is experiencing significant unrest fueled by demands for statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. These demands have sparked protests, with recent demonstrations turning violent.
Background: In August 2019, the central government revoked Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories (UTs): Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Unlike Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh was established without a legislature. This decision has led to persistent calls for statehood from various groups within Ladakh.
Demands for Statehood and Sixth Schedule: The core demands of the protestors include: * Statehood for Ladakh: This would grant Ladakh its own elected legislative assembly, providing greater autonomy in decision-making. * Inclusion under the Sixth Schedule: The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution provides special provisions for the administration of tribal areas, granting local communities a say in how their regions are governed. This schedule is currently applicable to tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. Protesters argue that without the protections of the Sixth Schedule, Ladakh's fragile environment, land rights, and cultural identity are under threat. * Separate Lok Sabha Seats: Demands include the allocation of separate Lok Sabha (Parliament) seats for Leh and Kargil. * Employment Reservations: Protesters are also seeking employment reservations for the people of Ladakh.
Escalation of Protests: Frustration has been growing in Ladakh due to the central government's perceived lack of responsiveness to these demands. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk began a hunger strike on September 10, 2025, to press for the demands, which led to increased tensions. The situation intensified when two fellow hunger strikers were hospitalized in critical condition, prompting widespread protests.
Violent Clashes and Aftermath: On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, protests in Leh turned violent. Clashes between protesters and security forces resulted in casualties, with reports indicating that four people were killed and over 70 injured, including security personnel. Protesters set fire to a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office, a police vehicle, and other private and government vehicles. Authorities responded by imposing a curfew in Leh, reducing internet speeds, and deploying a large number of police and paramilitary forces.
Following the violence, Sonam Wangchuk called off his hunger strike and appealed for calm, urging protesters to refrain from violence. He cautioned that violence would undermine their cause and provide the government with a pretext for repression.
Government Response: The Union Home Ministry stated that the situation in Leh had been brought under control by 4 pm on Wednesday. The ministry appealed to the public not to circulate inflammatory videos and blamed the violence on politically motivated elements. The government reiterated its commitment to providing constitutional safeguards for Ladakh and pointed to a scheduled meeting of a High Powered Committee on October 6 as evidence of its engagement. However, activists have criticized the government for delaying tactics and ignoring peaceful appeals.
Current Situation: Restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) remain in effect in violence-hit areas of Ladakh. A complete shutdown was observed in the Kargil district. The next round of talks between local politicians and representatives from New Delhi is expected to take place on October 6.
