Life came to a grinding halt in Kargil on Thursday after the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) gave a call for a complete shutdown, a day after four civilians were killed and more than seventy others were injured during violent clashes in Leh.
Shops, business establishments and markets in Kargil remained shut, while reports of a complete shutdown also poured in from Burow, Sankoo, Panikhar, Padum, Trespon and several adjoining areas. Locals refrained from routine activities in response to the shutdown call, which was seen as an expression of solidarity with those killed and injured in Leh.
Meanwhile, Leh continued to remain under strict curfew, with security forces deployed in strength to prevent fresh flare-ups. Movement of people was heavily restricted and authorities warned of stern action against those found violating curfew orders.
The unrest stems from long-standing demands of Ladakh’s political and social groups for constitutional safeguards through inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and restoration of full statehood. Protesters argue that such measures are essential to protect land, jobs and cultural identity of the region.
The situation turned volatile on Wednesday when a large protest rally in Leh clashed with security forces, leading to the deaths of four civilians and injuries to over seventy others. Eyewitnesses accused the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) of using excessive force, including live ammunition and heavy tear gas shelling, against demonstrators.
While the Lieutenant Governor’s administration termed the violence as part of a “conspiracy” to destabilize the region, this claim has been rejected by the Leh Apex Body, a key socio-political grouping. The Body said the protests were a natural outpouring of public anger against the government’s refusal to address Ladakhi aspirations, and it strongly condemned the use of force against unarmed civilians.
In Kargil, the KDA reiterated its support for the joint movement of Leh and Kargil-based organizations pressing for safeguards. “We stand united with our brothers in Leh. The loss of innocent lives is unacceptable and we will continue our struggle peacefully until our demands are met,” said a KDA spokesperson.
Locals across Ladakh expressed shock over the killings and accused the administration of mishandling the situation. Many pointed out that instead of engaging with stakeholders, authorities have chosen confrontation, which they fear could deepen alienation.
Authorities have appealed for calm, but tensions remain high. With the curfew still in force in Leh and shutdown paralyzing normal life in Kargil, the situation in Ladakh continues to be fragile [KNT]
Comments are closed.