In the wake of tragic unrest that left four people dead and over 90 injured, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta convened a vital security review meeting on Thursday. The meeting took place in Leh and aimed to address the escalating security challenges and promote community harmony.
In his address, Gupta stated, “Peace and harmony are the foundation of Ladakh’s identity. Together, we must protect this legacy and ensure the safety and security of every citizen.” His remarks underline the regional administration’s commitment to maintaining order following violent protests prompted by a shutdown organized by the Leh Apex Body (LAB). This shutdown aimed to revitalize discussions with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the quest for statehood for Ladakh.
Following the clashes, which disrupted daily life in the region, Gupta called for heightened vigilance and underscored the need for seamless inter-agency coordination. According to a statement from the LG office, officials must adopt proactive measures to protect public order and safety throughout the Union Territory.
The security meeting included Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, DGP S.D. Singh Jamwal, and senior officials from the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police. Gupta emphasized the significance of a robust monitoring mechanism to continuously evaluate ground situations and ensure a quick response to any arising challenges. “The safety and well-being of citizens remain our top priority,” he affirmed.
In his comments, Gupta highlighted the vital role of partnerships between civil and security agencies. He advocated enhancing intelligence-gathering networks and actively involving communities in maintaining peace within the region. “Ladakh has always been known for its peace, harmony, and brotherhood. However, certain anti-social elements are trying to disturb this atmosphere. I urge the people not to fall prey to such attempts. We must maintain peace at all costs,” he warned.
Highlighting the ongoing developments in the region, Gupta noted that after gaining Union Territory status in 2019, Ladakh has experienced substantial growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance. He stressed, “Our focus is on building a prosperous, peaceful, and developed Ladakh. No disruptive force will be allowed to derail this progress.”
Gupta assured the public of the government’s unwavering support in light of the recent turmoil. “Every life is precious, and we are ensuring the best possible medical care for those injured.” He provided an update on the health services extended to victims of the Wednesday riots, indicating that 90 individuals sought treatment at SNM Hospital in Leh, three of whom were declared dead upon arrival.
Of the injured, seven patients sustained critical injuries, 20 experienced significant trauma, while 61 reported minor injuries. The medical facility efficiently discharged 50 patients the day of the incident. Gupta noted that seven major surgeries took place, with 45 blood transfusions administered in response to the casualties.
The administration continued its medical support by airlifting a critically injured patient to New Delhi via an Indian Air Force aircraft for advanced care. Currently, 18 patients remain hospitalized, whereas 11 people were discharged on the same day. Gupta confirmed that the families of the deceased received their loved ones’ bodies after completing all legal formalities.
In accordance with Gupta’s directives, the Leh deputy commissioner visited SNM Hospital to assess the condition of the injured and ensure necessary assistance was provided to both patients and their families. This proactive approach aims to bolster community trust in the administration and facilitate the healing process after the traumatic incidents.
