Two Civilians Laid to Rest After Ladakh Protests Tragedy
Ladakh’s unrest stems from broken promises—youth, once hopeful after Article 370’s abrogation, now protest over joblessness and denied rights.
Ladakh Protest Victims Cremated Amid Tight Curfew in Leh
Leh: The bodies of two civilians killed during the September 24 street protests in Ladakh were cremated in Leh on Sunday, September 28, under the shadow of grief and heavy security. Only close family members were permitted to attend the last rites, as authorities continued to enforce a strict curfew for the fifth consecutive day.
The atmosphere in Leh remained tense and subdued. Streets that usually echo with the chatter of locals and tourists alike were eerily silent, with security forces stationed at key junctions. Shops stayed shuttered, and movement was tightly restricted, reflecting the fragile calm in the region.
The families of the two men, both active participants in the protests, said they never imagined their calls for rights and recognition would end in such tragedy. Relatives at the cremation site wept quietly, their mourning deepened by the absence of neighbors and friends who were unable to attend because of the curfew.
The protests, which turned violent last week, were driven by demands for Sixth Schedule status and greater job opportunities for Ladakh’s youth. What began as peaceful demonstrations escalated into clashes, with police and security personnel accused of using excessive force. The deaths of the two civilians have become a rallying point, further inflaming anger among local communities.
Leaders from across the political spectrum have urged calm but also pressed the government to listen to Ladakh’s grievances. “Promises were made after Article 370’s abrogation, but very little has been delivered,” one local activist said. “People feel ignored, and this tragedy has only deepened the wounds.”
For now, Ladakh mourns in silence. The quiet cremations stand as stark reminders of the cost of unaddressed aspirations, leaving families grieving and a community waiting for answers.