Ladakh violence: Over 50 detained, curfew imposed after intense clashes

A day after violent protests claimed at least four lives and injured many more in the Union Territory of Ladakh, more than 50 people were detained on Thursday as police and paramilitary forces strictly implemented curfew.

Strict prohibitory restrictions banning assembly of five or more persons have been placed in other major towns as well, including Kargil where a shutdown was called by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) in support of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was leading a hunger strike. A shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) — to advance talks with the Centre on demand for statehood and extension of Sixth Schedule to Ladakh — had descended into violence, arson and street clashes on Wednesday.

Kargil District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita in the entire district, banning assembly of five or more persons, taking out processions or holding demonstrations without prior written permission of the competent authority.

Restrictions were also imposed on the use of loudspeakers, sound amplifying devices, or vehicle-mounted public address systems without authorisation. Besides, no person shall make any public statement, speech, or declaration — whether verbal, written, or through electronic means — which is likely to disturb public peace, provoke enmity, or cause a breach of law and order in the district, the official order said.