Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has appealed to the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) to rejoin discussions with the central government, emphasizing that all matters can be resolved through constructive dialogue. His call comes amidst significant unrest in the region, which has seen calls for statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule.
In his address, Gupta also critiqued Rahul Gandhi’s comments on the Ladakh situation, alleging that the Congress leader’s statements were attempting to destabilize the atmosphere, drawing parallels to past farmers’ and other protests.
Responding to demands for a judicial inquiry into the September 24 violence and the release of detainees, including prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk, the L-G confirmed that a magisterial probe has already been initiated and is expected to commence shortly.
A sense of normalcy has gradually begun to return to Leh town. Curfew restrictions, which had been in place for a week, were initially relaxed for seven hours on Tuesday, September 30, allowing shops and businesses to reopen. This relaxation was further extended by an additional hour on Wednesday, October 1, now running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Despite these measures, mobile internet services remain suspended, and strict prohibitory orders against large gatherings are still enforced across much of the Union Territory, including Kargil.
The planned dialogue between the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ladakh representatives, originally slated for October 6, faces a significant hurdle. Both LAB and KDA have announced a suspension of talks, citing the need for a “conducive atmosphere.” They specifically demand a judicial inquiry into the recent violence and the release of over 50 individuals, including Mr. Wangchuk, who was arrested under the National Security Act (NSA) on allegations of instigating the disturbances. The groups contend that the violence erupted due to “highhandedness” by authorities and security forces during a shutdown organized by a LAB constituent.
The Lt. Governor stated that the administration did not exacerbate the situation, nor did it desire such an outcome. He stressed that the causes of the violence are currently under investigation. He reiterated that the central government had extended an invitation for talks, suggesting that the agitating groups should have held prior consultations. “Any issue can be settled only by sitting across the table. Only through talks, things become possible,” he conveyed.
Gupta urged all sections of Ladakh’s population, including youth and religious bodies, to participate in discussions to address their concerns. He described the September 24 incidents as “tragic and unfortunate,” emphasizing that such events should be prevented in the future. He noted that initial restrictions, including school and college closures, were precautionary and have since been eased to minimize disruption to daily life. The administration’s goal, he affirmed, is to fully restore normal life within the coming days, acknowledging that arrests were made in connection with the investigation into those who instigated the violence that led to four fatalities.
Regarding the controversy surrounding the application of the NSA against Wangchuk, the L-G clarified that this is a matter for the central government to address, as the charges are part of a broader legal case. He emphasized his focus on local issues.
Responding to Rahul Gandhi’s criticism, Gupta asserted that the public understands the opposition leader’s intentions, accusing him of attempting to destabilize the nation, similar to his alleged involvement in farmers’ and other agitations. He advised Gandhi to prioritize internal party matters over attempts to disrupt Ladakh’s peace. Finally, the Lt. Governor confirmed that mobile internet services would be restored once the situation stabilizes.