Ladakh LG Reviews Security, Calls for Vigilance Amid Tensions

On Thursday, amid rising tensions following violent clashes in Ladakh that resulted in four fatalities and 90 injuries, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta convened a security review meeting in Leh. His urgent call for enhanced vigilance aims to restore peace in the troubled region.

Gupta emphasized the critical need for unity among Ladakh’s residents, stating, “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.” This meeting followed a shutdown imposed by a local group advocating for advancement in talks regarding the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and statehood for Ladakh.

The lieutenant governor’s meeting involved high-ranking officials, including Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal and DGP S D Singh Jamwal, alongside senior personnel from the Army and ITBP. According to a statement from the LG office on X, this assembly focused on evaluating the evolving security landscape and underscored the imposition of heightened vigilance across the Union Territory (UT).

Gupta addressed the officials present, reiterating the administration’s commitment to prioritizing citizen safety. He advanced directives aimed at fostering comprehensive monitoring of the local security situation, as reported by a spokesperson from Raj Bhavan. The lieutenant governor underscored the importance of robust inter-agency collaboration to facilitate a swift response to any emerging challenges.

He further highlighted the necessity of augmenting intelligence-gathering frameworks, engaging community members in peacekeeping efforts, and enhancing readiness for any unforeseen incidents. “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 remarked.

The LG acknowledged Ladakh’s significant development strides since gaining Union Territory status in 2019 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Expressing an unwavering commitment to a peaceful and prosperous Ladakh, he warned against any forces aiming to undermine this progress. “Our focus is on building a prosperous, peaceful, and developed Ladakh. No disruptive force will be allowed to derail this progress,” he affirmed.

Gupta reassured citizens of the government’s steadfast support during this precarious period. “The government stands firmly with the people of Ladakh. Every life is precious, and we are ensuring the best possible medical care for those injured.” He provided an overview of the medical response following the altercation, which left 90 individuals requiring treatment at SNM Hospital in Leh.

Among the injured, three individuals were pronounced dead upon arrival at the healthcare facility. Seven victims sustained critical injuries while medical personnel treated 20 others for major trauma and 61 for minor injuries. Gupta confirmed that, of the total, 50 patients were discharged on the same day, with seven undergoing major surgeries and 45 receiving blood transfusions.

The lieutenant governor also shared updates on one critically injured patient who received an airlift to New Delhi via an Indian Air Force aircraft for specialized treatment. As of now, 18 patients remain hospitalized, with 11 more discharged after ensuring their recovery. Gupta mentioned that the bodies of the four deceased have been returned to their families following the completion of all necessary legal procedures.

In a show of concern, the Leh deputy commissioner visited SNM Hospital on the lieutenant governor’s instructions to check on the injured and facilitate assistance for their families. The government continues to prioritize a climate of peace amidst this distressing situation, as highlighted by Gupta’s emphatic appeals for maintaining social harmony across Ladakh.