NEW DELHI: Dr. SD Singh Jamwal, the Director General of Police (DGP) for Ladakh, provided a detailed briefing on the violence that erupted on September 24, resulting in injuries to 17 personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and over 70 civilians due to stone-pelting and clashes between protesters and authorities.
Dr. Jamwal reported that a group estimated to be between 5,000 and 6,000 strong marched, damaging government buildings and political offices. He noted that despite scheduled discussions with central authorities in Delhi, a large crowd gathered in Leh. “CRPF personnel were brutally beaten; one is currently hospitalized with severe spinal injuries. Four female police officers were in a building that was set ablaze during the unrest. The use of firearms occurred in self-defense, and four lives were lost,” Jamwal stated.
The DGP confirmed that approximately 70 to 80 security personnel and an equal number of civilians sustained injuries, including a girl who required airlifting to Delhi for advanced medical treatment. He added that a person of Indian origin from Pakistan was arrested for having connections with activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been accused of inciting unrest through provocative speeches.
Additionally, Dr. Jamwal explained the situation surrounding the demands for special status under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution and statehood for Ladakh. He indicated that while the government is engaging with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), Sonam Wangchuk’s actions are seen as obstructive. “Wangchuk’s demands and actions have hindered the decision-making process,” he noted, adding that he previously attempted to commandeer public protests to disrupt peace.
The DGP indicated that 32 individuals were severely injured on the first day of clashes, and he himself sustained minor injuries. “On September 24, as the crowd grew, anti-social elements became involved. They attacked government structures and law enforcement, and the number of injured personnel quickly rose,” Jamwal elaborated.
Police reported the arrest of 44 individuals, with key leaders of the unrest being apprehended, including Sonam Wangchuk, who has been detained under the National Security Act (NSA). Jamwal confirmed, “The main ring leaders have been nabbed, and Wangchuk has been sent out under charges related to national security.”
