Updated: Leh on Boil: CRPF Vehicle Torched, Police Foil Attempt to Torch Secretariat, Dozens Arrested

Leh, Sep 24, KNT: The Leh division of Union Territory Ladakh was thrown into turmoil today as protests led by the Apex Body escalated into violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces, leaving the region on edge. The demonstrations, initially in solidarity with hunger strikers who had been fasting for nearly two weeks, quickly spiraled out of control when the crowd attempted to storm and set fire to the Leh Hill Council Secretariat.

According to reports from the ground, thousands of protesters carrying placards and banners marched towards the Secretariat, raising slogans against the administration and demanding that their grievances be addressed. Witnesses said that as the protest swelled in numbers, a section of the crowd became unruly and tried to torch the Hill Council Secretariat building. Fire and emergency personnel rushed to the scene and managed to contain the blaze before it spread, though the building reportedly sustained partial damage.

The situation worsened when protesters clashed with police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel deployed in the area. Eyewitnesses told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that in the heat of the confrontation, an angry mob set ablaze a CRPF vehicle. Police responded by firing tear gas shells to disperse the protesters, leading to chaos in the streets. Several youths were reportedly detained, though officials have not released exact numbers.

The clashes have intensified fears among locals that anger could erupt again if the administration fails to take immediate measures. “The mood is tense, and people are frustrated. Any small spark could push the situation out of control,” said one local elder in Leh.

The Apex Body has been spearheading a hunger strike that has now entered its third week. During this period, the health of two participants, a 72-year-old Chhering Angchok and 60-year-old Doma, deteriorated severely due to prolonged fasting. Both were rushed to hospital for treatment. News of their condition sparked widespread outrage across Ladakh, drawing more people into the protest movement.

Political circles have also weighed in, adding to the heated atmosphere. The Leh District Congress Committee councillors, addressing a press conference today, openly criticized the administration and accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party of ignoring public concerns. “Instead of listening to the genuine demands of the people, the government is trying to crush the protest with force. This is unacceptable,” said one Congress councillor.

The Apex Body leadership, in fresh appeals made today, urged the public to remain steadfast in their movement. They called upon youth, in particular, to come out in greater numbers and strengthen the protests. Social and civic organizations in Ladakh also voiced deep concern over the deteriorating situation, demanding that the hunger strike be treated as a people’s cause rather than a fringe movement.

Observers note that today’s events mark one of the most serious escalations since the hunger strike began, raising alarms over stability in the region. The administration has so far maintained silence on whether any negotiations are underway, though police officials confirmed that security measures have been tightened in and around Leh town.

With tempers running high and public anger mounting, many fear the coming days could see further unrest unless the government makes a concrete intervention. For now, Leh remains under a shadow of uncertainty, with the hunger strike continuing and the Apex Body vowing to intensify their agitation until their demands are met. The main demands are the implementation of Sixth Schedule and the statehood to the Ladakh. [KNT]