A day after violent clashes in Ladakh resulted in four fatalities and 90 injuries, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta convened a crucial security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. This meeting emphasized the importance of heightened vigilance to maintain peace in the region.
Gupta stressed the need for unity among citizens, stating, “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 clashes emerged during a shutdown called by a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), advocating for prompt talks with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and statehood for Ladakh.
The LG’s office announced that Gupta led a high-level security review meeting to analyze the ongoing situation across Ladakh. He highlighted the necessity for heightened vigilance, seamless inter-agency coordination, and proactive strategies to uphold public order and security.
Those attending the meeting included Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, DGP S D Singh Jamwal, and senior officials from the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). During the discussions, Gupta reiterated that the welfare of Ladakh’s citizens remains the administration’s top priority.
“The administration must maintain a robust mechanism to monitor the ground situation continuously,” a Raj Bhavan spokesman stated. He underscored the importance of collaboration between civil and security agencies to ensure a swift response to any arising challenges.
Additionally, Gupta called for an enhancement of intelligence-gathering networks, stressing the importance of community participation in maintaining harmony, and boosting preparedness to tackle any potential disturbances. “Ladakh has always been recognized for its peace, harmony, and brotherhood. Certain anti-social elements are attempting to disrupt this atmosphere. I urge the people not to become victims of such attempts. We must maintain peace at all costs,” he implored.
Gupta also reflected on the significant developmental strides made in Ladakh since it gained Union Territory status in 2019. He stated, “Our focus is on building a prosperous, peaceful, and developed Ladakh. No disruptive forces will be allowed to derail this progress.”
He appealed for public restraint from violence, assuring complete government support in these testing times. “The government stands firmly with the people of Ladakh. Every life is precious, and we are committed to providing the best possible medical care for the injured,” he claimed.
Providing an update on the medical response following Wednesday’s incident, Gupta revealed that 90 patients were admitted to SNM Hospital, Leh. Among them, three were pronounced dead upon arrival, and one was declared dead later. Seven patients sustained critical injuries, 20 suffered severe trauma, while 61 had minor injuries. Gupta could confirm that while 50 patients were discharged the same day, seven required major surgeries, leading to 45 blood transfusions.
“Today, one critically injured patient was airlifted to New Delhi for advanced treatment,” Gupta mentioned. Presently, 18 patients remain hospitalized, while 11 were discharged. The bodies of the deceased have been handed over to their families post completion of legal formalities.
In a display of concern for the injured, the LG directed the Leh deputy commissioner to visit SNM Hospital to ensure that the best possible assistance is provided to the patients and their families.
This latest chapter in Ladakh’s ongoing struggle for statehood raises crucial questions about local governance and the balance between safety and civil liberties. As tensions appear to rise, the need for sustained dialogue and community cooperation becomes paramount for the peace and development of this unique region.
