Leh: A shutdown was observed in Leh and other parts of Ladakh on Wednesday to mark the first anniversary of the September 24, 2025 violence that left four people dead during protests over demands for statehood and safeguards under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
Shops and business establishments remained closed in Leh and Kargil, while traffic was relatively thin on the roads. Some groups observed the day as “Shaheed Diwas” or “Martyrs’ Day”, with tribute and remembrance programmes held for those who died during last year's violence.
The Ladakh administration also approved the withdrawal of criminal cases against 20 people booked in connection with the violence. Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said the decision followed a comprehensive review and a recommendation from Ladakh Police to file a closure report in the relevant case.
The decision came ahead of the anniversary and follows the withdrawal of cases against another 25 people in August. Ladakh officials have said 87 people were booked following the September 2025 violence.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk led a symbolic march in Leh as part of the anniversary observances. The march, originally proposed by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), was shortened because of weather conditions.
Participants covered around 20 km and reached Shaheed Memorial Park in Leh, where prayers and tributes were offered to those who died in the violence. Wangchuk said September 24 would be observed as Shaheed Diwas.
Wangchuk also called for the early submission and public release of the judicial inquiry report into the September 24, 2025 incident. He said the report should establish the circumstances that led to the firing and examine questions surrounding the use of force during the protests.
The protests in September 2025 were linked to demands for statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule. The demonstrations turned violent in Leh on September 24, resulting in four deaths and injuries to dozens of people. The administration subsequently ordered a judicial inquiry.
The Ladakh administration has also announced compensation of Rs 15 lakh each for the families of the four people killed and financial assistance for those injured in the violence.
Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act following last year's protests and was released in March 2026. Discussions between Ladakh representatives and the Centre on constitutional safeguards and governance arrangements remain ongoing.
