KDA, ABL announce peaceful protest; Leh admin imposes restrictions

Kargil, Oct 17: Even as the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Friday ordered a judicial probe into the September 24 violence in Leh—a key demand of Ladakh’s political and religious leaders—the twin bodies, Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and Apex Body Leh (ABL), reaffirmed their call for a peaceful and silent march on Saturday.

The KDA on Friday held a joint meeting in Kargil with wide participation from local stakeholders, reiterating its demand for full statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

The meeting was attended by Acting CEC LAHDC Kargil Kacho Mohammad Feroz, KDA Co-chairman Asgar Ali Karbalai, Sajad Kargili, and representatives of various associations and trade bodies. Participants described the campaign as a unified effort to safeguard Ladakh’s constitutional and developmental rights.

KDA Co-Chairman Asgar Karbalai said the government’s response to people’s concerns has been “inadequate and insensitive.” He announced that a silent protest march will be held on Saturday, October 18, from Changrah Bazar to Lal Chowk, Kargil, with similar events at sub-divisional and block headquarters. Later in the evening, the entire Ladakh region will observe a symbolic blackout in solidarity with the victims of the September 24 incident in Leh.

The meeting also resolved that future talks with the government would depend on three conditions: unconditional release of Sonam Wangchuk and other detainees, withdrawal of all charges, and compensation for those killed or injured in recent events.

In Leh, the Apex Body also confirmed its decision to hold a Silent Peace March on Saturday from Singay Chowk to Shanti Stupa. Calling it a “historic” event, ABL leaders said the march would have no slogans, placards, or speeches and would symbolise Ladakh’s unity and commitment to peace. The marchers will wear black armbands as a sign of resistance and mourning.

The Apex Body announced a region-wide blackout from 6 pm to 9 pm to honour those killed and injured on September 24, describing it as a gesture to “reflect the darkness Ladakh is going through.” It also appealed to people to refrain from using music systems and traditional instruments such as Daman and Surna during celebrations for the next three months.

However, the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) appealed to schools and colleges to remain open and advised students not to join the peace march.

Meanwhile, the administration has imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNS) in Leh, banning gatherings of five or more persons, rallies, or processions without prior approval. The order also prohibits statements or activities that could disturb public peace.

Issuing the order, District Magistrate Romil Singh Donk said it was based on reports indicating a possible threat to law and order in Leh. Violations, the order said, would invite punitive action under Section 223 of the BNS.

Addressing a press conference in Leh, Chief Secretary of Ladakh Dr Pawan Kotwal said the administration would not allow anyone to “derail peace in Ladakh again.” He confirmed that the MHA had ordered a judicial inquiry into the September 24 incident, in which four people were killed and nearly 90 were injured following police action.

Kotwal said doctors provided immediate and expert medical care to the injured, performing several complex surgeries. Five patients, including an ex-serviceman, remain under treatment. He added that most of those arrested have been granted bail, while others are likely to receive it soon.

He appealed to the public to maintain calm, especially with major examinations approaching, and to avoid large gatherings or protests. “Peace and normalcy are gradually returning,” he said, adding that constitutional safeguards for Ladakh are under active consideration by the central government.

Kotwal reiterated that the High-Powered Committee (HPC) will continue dialogue with the Centre to resolve all issues through peaceful means. “The administration will act firmly if anyone attempts to disturb the fragile peace again,” he said.