Journalism of Courage
A large crowd gathers at the NDS Memorial Ground in Leh, holding placards demanding full statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, marking the start of a historic demonstration (Source: Photo by PTI)
Protesters march through the busy streets of Leh, chanting slogans and waving banners, calling for greater autonomy, protection of cultural rights, and constitutional recognition for the people of Ladakh (Source: Photo by PTI)
As the protest progresses toward key government offices, tensions rise between demonstrators and law enforcement, resulting in confrontations and minor scuffles that foreshadow further unrest (Source: Photo by PTI)
In a significant escalation, angry protesters set fire to the BJP office in Leh, causing extensive damage and sending thick plumes of black smoke visible across the city (Source: Photo by PTI)
A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) vehicle is engulfed in flames, symbolizing the intensifying unrest and highlighting the protesters’ growing frustration with local authorities (Source: Photo by PTI)
Law enforcement personnel deploy tear gas and wield batons to disperse the crowd, struggling to regain control as violence and chaos escalate in multiple parts of Leh (Source: Photo by PTI)
Shops, businesses, and local markets remain closed as part of a citywide shutdown organized by protest leaders, reflecting the widespread community support for the statehood movement (Source: Photo by PTI)
Additional security forces are deployed across Leh, with checkpoints, patrols, and barricades set up to prevent further clashes and maintain order throughout the city (Source: Photo by PTI)
Emergency responders tend to injured individuals, with reports indicating at least four fatalities and more than 70 injuries among both protesters and police personnel amid the violent clashes (Source: Photo by PTI)
Leaders from various political parties react to the violent events, with some condemning the unrest while others express support for the protesters’ legitimate demands for political recognition (Source: Photo by PTI)
Sonam Wangchuk, the renowned Ladakhi engineer, educationist, and climate activist, expressed deep concern over the violence. He urged protesters to remain peaceful while emphasizing the importance of continuing the struggle for Ladakh’s statehood through non-violent means and dialogue with authorities (Source: Photo by PTI)
