Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Wednesday called off his 15-day hunger strike after protests over statehood for Ladakh and extension of the Sixth Schedule turned violent. Protesters set fire to the BJP office and several vehicles. Hundreds took to the streets as flames and thick smoke filled the Ladakh capital. The administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 to prevent gatherings of five or more people. Wangchuk urged youth to stop the violence, saying it harms the cause and destabilizes the region. He addressed supporters at the strike venue and later posted a video on X appealing for peace.
The protest was organised by the Ladakh Apex Body youth wing after two hunger strikers were hospitalized following deteriorating health. Leh town shut down as large crowds gathered at the NDS Memorial ground and marched through the streets chanting slogans in support of the Sixth Schedule and statehood.
Clashes escalated when some youth pelted stones at the BJP office and the Hill Council. Police and paramilitary forces used teargas and baton charges to control the situation. Protesters set fire to a security vehicle and parts of the BJP office. Reinforcements brought the situation under control after several hours.
(With PTI Inputs)