Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta held a crucial security review meeting in Leh on Thursday, responding to unrest that resulted in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to 90 others amid a shutdown in Ladakh. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding safety and social harmony in the region.
Following the clashes, which erupted during a shutdown called by a faction of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) advocating for statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule, Gupta highlighted the importance of peace. He stated, “Peace and harmony are the foundation of Ladakh’s identity. Together, we must protect this legacy and ensure the safety and security of every citizen.”
The LG convened the high-level meeting to assess the current security landscape across Ladakh, calling for enhanced vigilance and inter-agency cooperation. The meeting featured prominent officials, including Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, Director General of Police S. D. Singh Jamwal, and senior military officers from the Army and ITBP.
During the review, Gupta emphasized the administration’s top priority is the safety and well-being of citizens. He directed officials to implement a robust mechanism for monitoring the ground situation continuously. The LG urged close cooperation between civil and security entities to guarantee a swift response to any emerging challenges.
He noted, “Ladakh has always been known for its peace, harmony, and brotherhood. However, certain anti-social elements are trying to disturb this atmosphere. I urge the people not to fall prey to such attempts. We must maintain peace at all costs.”
Gupta underlined the importance of community involvement in ensuring harmony, advocating for strengthened intelligence-gathering networks, and improving readiness to address any disruptions. He assured citizens, “The government stands firmly with the people of Ladakh. Every life is precious, and we ensure the best possible medical care for those injured.”
On the medical response front, Gupta provided details about those injured during Wednesday’s violence. He disclosed that out of 90 patients brought to SNM Hospital in Leh, three were deceased upon arrival, while one died shortly thereafter. Among the rest, seven patients were critically injured, and 20 suffered significant trauma, indicating the severity of the situation.
As of the latest updates, 45 blood transfusions have been administered, and while 50 patients have been discharged, seven required major surgeries. In a move to provide advanced care, a critically injured patient was airlifted to New Delhi via an Indian Air Force aircraft, reflecting the administration’s urgent response to the crisis.
The LG also noted that the deceased individuals’ families received their bodies after completing all legal procedures. On his directions, Leh’s deputy commissioner visited SNM Hospital to check on the injured, ensuring they received all necessary assistance.
Gupta’s statements come amidst rising tensions in Ladakh, marking a significant period as local groups push for political representation and stability. This unrest poses challenges to the recovering socio-political fabric of the region that has shown considerable development following its status change to a Union Territory in 2019.
Highlighting the potential for progress, Gupta remarked, “Our focus is on building a prosperous, peaceful, and developed Ladakh. No disruptive force will be allowed to derail this progress.” Hence, he called on the public to reject violence and work together for a peaceful future.
Today’s events underscore the delicate balance needed between security measures and the socio-political aspirations of Ladakh’s residents, making the role of the administration crucial in maintaining stability in this beautiful region.