NEWS UPDATE: 17:39 IST
Violence erupted in Ladakh on Wednesday as protests demanding statehood and inclusion of the region under the Sixth Schedule spiralled out of control. At least four people lost their lives, while more than 70 sustained injuries during the clashes.
Authorities, caught off guard by the sudden escalation, quickly imposed a curfew across the city. A ban on gatherings of more than five people was also enforced in an attempt to prevent further unrest.
The agitation, fuelled by long-standing demands for greater autonomy and constitutional safeguards, drew large crowds before turning chaotic. Security forces struggled to restore order as demonstrators clashed with them, leaving the region tense and under heavy restrictions.
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NEWS RELEASED: 14.56 IST
Protests demanding statehood in Ladakh have intensified, leading to violent confrontations with law enforcement officials. Demonstrators blocked roads and clashed with police, setting a police vehicle on fire. The unrest has disrupted normal life in parts of the region, affecting traffic and public transport, while authorities have increased security in sensitive areas.
The agitation stems from a long-standing demand by certain groups in Ladakh for full statehood, following the region&rsquo;s bifurcation from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019. When Jammu and Kashmir were reorganised into two union territories, Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh, residents of Ladakh had expressed mixed reactions. While some welcomed direct central administration, others raised concerns over limited political representation, administrative autonomy, and development priorities.
Recent protests reflect these lingering grievances, with demonstrators seeking greater control over local governance and accelerated development projects. The current demonstrations have included rallies, sit-ins, and road blockades, which escalated into clashes after police attempted to disperse crowds.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, coordinating with local administration to maintain law and order. Security agencies are attempting to balance enforcement with minimising harm to citizens. Analysts note that the unrest underscores the ongoing debate about governance, development, and autonomy in Ladakh, and tensions are likely to persist if dialogue between the administration and local leaders does not advance.

Statehood protesters clash with police in Ladakh, setting a police vehicle on fire

Ladakh statehood stir turns violent, 4 dead

Statehood protesters clash with police in Ladakh, setting a police vehicle on fire

September 24, 2025 | 16:56 IST