Leh: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta on Wednesday appealed to the people of the Union Territory to maintain peace following the violent protests in Leh that left at least four dead and scores injured.
Addressing the public, Gupta said, “To my brothers and sisters in Ladakh, I come with a heavy heart. In a democracy, everyone has the right to speak and express their opinion, but instigating violence against political offices is unacceptable.”
He noted that over the past few days, misinformation had spread, warning that political party offices would be vandalised, a move he said was “against democracy.” Gupta added that the demands of the people were already being addressed by the Union Government, and a date had been finalised for further dialogue.
The Lieutenant Governor held those responsible for the violence accountable, saying, “These people are responsible for the lives lost today. Law will take its course. Curfew has been imposed as a precautionary measure, and those involved will not be spared.”
He further appealed to religious leaders and political parties to assist in identifying the instigators and prevent further unrest. “I have sympathy with those who lost their lives,” Gupta said, urging citizens to maintain calm and allow authorities to restore order.
The LG’s statement comes amid heightened tensions in Leh after protests demanding statehood for Ladakh and extension of the Sixth Schedule turned violent, resulting in the torching of a BJP office and other property. Security forces have been deployed across sensitive areas, and prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita remain in force to prevent further disturbances.
Gupta’s appeal emphasises the need for peaceful dialogue and responsible action by all stakeholders, even as the administration continues to manage the aftermath of the unrest.
