LEH, INDIA — Authorities have imposed a curfew in Ladakh’s Leh district after clashes broke out between protesters and security forces during a hunger strike led by activist Sonam Wangchuk. The unrest comes amid growing calls for statehood and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
Ladakh, carved out as a union territory in 2019 following the abrogation of Article 370, is currently governed through presidential regulations under Article 240. However, demonstrators argue that the Sixth Schedule, which protects tribal rights and land ownership in northeastern states like Assam and Mizoram, is essential to safeguard Ladakh’s 97% Scheduled Tribe population.
The Sixth Schedule grants autonomous district councils power over land, forests, inheritance, education, and local governance. Activists say this autonomy would prevent the transfer of tribal land to outsiders and preserve indigenous languages and culture.
Following the unrest, authorities detained at least 40 people and imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanayata Act, 2023. Public gatherings of more than five people have been banned, and rallies remain suspended.
Government sources say the Centre is considering advancing the October 6 High Power Committee meeting with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) to resolve the crisis sooner.
