The Leh Apex Body (LAB) announced on Monday its decision to withdraw from scheduled talks with the central government, originally set for October 6 in New Delhi. This decision follows a recent outbreak of violence in Leh, which resulted in the tragic deaths of four individuals and injuries to over 50 others.
At a press conference, senior LAB member Thupstan Chhewang said that the body unanimously agreed to halt discussions until specific conditions are met. These include a demand for a judicial inquiry into the violent events of September 24 and the withdrawal of cases against those arrested during the unrest.
Chhewang emphasized the necessity of restoring peace and normalcy before any dialogue could resume. He urged the Union Home Ministry, the Union Territory administration, and district authorities to take immediate action to address the distressing situation. “The terror and grief among the people must be addressed. Only after that can talks be considered,” he said.
Additionally, the LAB is calling for the release of all individuals detained in connection with the September 24 incident, including prominent environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been detained under the National Security Act (NSA) and transferred to a jail in Jodhpur.
The September 24 clashes erupted during a shutdown organized by a constituent of the LAB, which has been advocating for statehood and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. In a show of solidarity, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) echoed the LAB’s demands, with member Sajjad Kargili calling for Wangchuk’s immediate and unconditional release, as well as an impartial judicial probe into the violence.
In response to these developments, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the prevailing law and order situation in the Union Territory. He commended the responsible conduct of the local populace, noting their cooperation with authorities in maintaining calm during this sensitive period. “The people of Ladakh have shown remarkable maturity, restraint, and commitment to peace even in challenging circumstances,” he said.
Gupta acknowledged the efforts of security forces and local administration in restoring normalcy while urging officials to remain vigilant and responsive to people’s needs. He said that law enforcement should be firm yet sensitive to local sentiments.
The Lieutenant Governor also called for enhanced intelligence gathering and people’s engagement to strengthen trust between the administration and citizens. He urged youth to focus on constructive nation-building while assuring that every legitimate concern would be addressed through dialogue and democratic means. “Peace is the cornerstone of development,” he said, appealing to the people of Ladakh to work together towards harmony and progress.
