Ladakh statehood protest leaves 4 dead and 80 injured; Centre says situation under control
text_fields
Four people were killed and at least 80 were injured in violent clashes in Leh on Wednesday during protests demanding statehood for Ladakh.
Officials said the injured included 40 police personnel.
Streets in the city saw arson and stone-pelting as the statehood movement turned violent. Police and paramilitary forces used teargas shells to disperse the crowds and bring the situation under control.
By evening, the Union Home Ministry said the situation had stabilised. "Barring unfortunate incidents that happened early in the day, the situation in Ladakh is brought under control by 4 pm," the statement said.
The ministry added that no fresh incidents of violence were reported after 4 pm. It also appealed to the public to avoid sharing old or provocative videos on media and social media platforms.
In its statement, the ministry said the central government remained committed to meeting the aspirations of the people of Ladakh. It is assured that adequate constitutional safeguards would be provided.