A day after violent clashes left four dead and 90 injured in Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta convened a critical security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. He emphasized the need for heightened vigilance to maintain peace and avoid further unrest.
Speaking at the meeting, 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 comments came in light of a shutdown called by a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), aimed at pressuring the Centre for early talks regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and statehood for Ladakh.
The Lieutenant Governor’s meeting included key officials such as Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, DGP S. D. Singh Jamwal, and senior officers from the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police. According to an official statement from the LG office, “The lieutenant governor emphasized the need for seamless inter-agency coordination and proactive measures to safeguard peace, security, and public order across the UT.”
Gupta underscored that the safety and well-being of citizens remain the top priority of the administration. He directed officials to implement a robust mechanism for monitoring the ground situation continuously and highlighted the importance of cooperation between civil and security agencies for a swift response to emerging challenges.
The LG also called for strengthening intelligence-gathering networks and enhancing community participation in maintaining harmony. He urged the people not to fall victim to any attempts that might disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of Ladakh.
“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,” Gupta affirmed.
During his address, Gupta reflected on Ladakh’s developmental journey, noting that the region has shown remarkable progress since becoming a Union Territory in 2019 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He asserted, “Our focus is on building a prosperous, peaceful, and developed Ladakh. No disruptive force will be allowed to derail this progress.”
In terms of medical responses to the clash victims, Gupta reported that a total of 90 patients were admitted to SNM Hospital in Leh following the violence. Of these, three were declared dead on arrival, and one succumbed to injuries later. The Lieutenant Governor provided further details regarding the medical care received by the injured, stating that 7 patients suffered critical injuries, 20 sustained major trauma, and 61 had minor injuries.
Gupta elaborated that out of these individuals, 50 patients were discharged the same day, while seven underwent major surgeries, and 45 blood transfusions were performed. He also mentioned that one critically injured patient was airlifted to New Delhi for advanced treatment via an Indian Air Force aircraft.
As of now, 18 patients remain hospitalized, while 11 more were discharged on the same day. The LG confirmed that the bodies of the deceased have been returned to their families following the completion of all requisite legal formalities.
In a personal effort to extend government support, the Leh deputy commissioner visited SNM Hospital to check on the injured and ensure comprehensive assistance for them and their families.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, anticipating that the emphasis on unity and proactive governance will help restore normalcy and peace in Ladakh.
