Security tightened in Ladakh after deadly clashes over autonomy demands

Authorities in India imposed strict security measures in two key districts of the remote Ladakh region today (25 September), a day after violent clashes left four people dead and dozens injured. The unrest erupted during protests demanding greater autonomy from the Indian government.

Officials banned gatherings of more than five people in Leh and Kargil districts. Hundreds of police and paramilitary personnel patrolled the streets, while shops and businesses remained closed amid heightened restrictions.

The clashes began yesterday (24 September) when protesters threw stones at officers attempting to stop them from marching in the high-altitude town of Leh. Demonstrators also set fire to police and paramilitary vehicles, as well as the local office of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and other government buildings, according to police. Security forces responded with bullets, tear gas, and batons, resulting in four deaths and dozens of injuries.

Ladakh, located between India, Pakistan, and China, was separated from Indian-controlled Kashmir in 2019 when New Delhi revoked the region's statehood and semi-autonomy. While Kashmir has largely been silenced through a crackdown on dissent and new laws, calls for political rights in Ladakh have grown in recent years.

The protests are part of a broader movement in the federally administered region seeking statehood and constitutional provisions to gain control over land and agriculture policies. Wednesday's unrest followed a local call for a strike after two residents collapsed during a hunger strike organised by more than a dozen people advocating for statehood.

India's Home Ministry said police acted in "self-defence" and blamed the violence on "provocative speeches" by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has led the hunger strike since 10 September. Wangchuk called off the protest after the clashes.

The violence marked the most severe unrest in Ladakh in decades, reflecting growing frustration with New Delhi's policies. Initial optimism over the 2019 changes has given way to fears of land grabs, economic disruption, and environmental damage.

Ladakh's villages, sparsely populated and prone to territorial disputes, are also facing climate challenges, including floods, landslides, and drought. The region's thousands of glaciers are receding rapidly, threatening water supplies, while militarization since 2020 — following a deadly standoff between India and China — has worsened environmental degradation.

A new round of talks between Ladakh representatives and Indian officials is scheduled for 6 October.