In a tragic escalation of protests in Leh, Ladakh, four individuals lost their lives and over 70 others were injured as demonstrators clashed with police while demanding statehood and constitutional protections under the Sixth Schedule. This unrest marks the first fatal violence in the region since it became a Union Territory in 2019.

The protests intensified following a hunger strike led by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been advocating for the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule to secure local rights over land and resources. The situation turned violent when two hunger strikers were hospitalized, prompting thousands to gather at Martyrs' Ground in Leh to express their anger and solidarity.

Witnesses reported that protesters set fire to a police vehicle and a local BJP office, leading security forces to respond with tear gas and live ammunition. The police reported that at least 20 security personnel were injured during the clashes. In response to the violence, authorities imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, banning public gatherings in the area.

Leh Apex Body Chairman Chering Dorjey confirmed the fatalities and described the situation as tense. He stated, "Scores sustained injuries and four persons have died so far." The unrest has raised concerns about the growing demands for statehood and greater autonomy, as many Ladakhis feel vulnerable without legislative power since the revocation of Article 370.

Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta attributed the violence to a conspiracy aimed at disturbing peace in Ladakh, suggesting that recent comparisons to Nepal and Bangladesh had provoked the protests. Meanwhile, local leaders criticized the use of excessive force by security personnel, with Ladakh MP Haji Mohmad Haneefa Jan calling for a more measured response.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has been in ongoing discussions with local representatives, with the next round of talks scheduled for October 6. However, the recent violence has led to calls for these discussions to be expedited. Wangchuk, who ended his hunger strike after 14 days, expressed deep concern over the unrest, stating, "What happened today is very sad. The youth are angry because peaceful protests over the last five years have yielded no results."

As the situation remains volatile, the UT administration has urged the public to maintain peace and warned of strict action against those engaging in violence. The outcome of the upcoming talks is crucial in determining whether tensions will ease or escalate further.