SRINAGAR: In the biggest power show and mobilisation after the September 24 violence, peaceful protests were held in Leh and Kargil districts on Monday. Kargil observed shutdown on the call of Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), to press for statehood and 6th schedule for Union Territory of Ladakh.
Hundreds of locals wearing traditional attire marched from Singay Namgyal Chowk to Leh Polo Ground in Leh. They carried banners and chanted slogans, “We Want 6th Schedule,” “We Want Statehood” and that a UT status was unacceptable.
LAB leader Glenphunchok said about 7000-8000 people participated in the rally. It was the first major rally in Ladakh after violence broke out during a protest for statehood and 6th Schedule in Leh on September 24, 2025, in which four persons were killed and 80 others were injured in police firing.
“The rally also demanded early outcome of the Judicial Commission inquiry on Leh violence and welcomed release of Wangchuk and demanded release of two other detainees” Glenphunchok said. The rally dispersed peacefully after leaders addressed the gathering.
LAB co chairman Chering Dorjey said that people supported the 4-points demands. “The centre should respect the public sentiments and resume talks,” he said.
In Kargil district, a rally was taken out to demand statehood and protection for the UT under the 6th Schedule.
The KDA co-chairman Asgar Ali Karbali, MP Ladakh Haji Haneefa Jan and KDA leader Sajjad Kargili addressed the rally. They welcomed release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and demanded release of ex MLA Deldan Namgyal and ex councillor Smanla Dorjey. They also demanded withdrawal of charge against those detained after the Leh violence last year.