Farooq Abdullah Warns Against Force in Ladakh Following Violent Protests: Calls for Dialogue Over Suppression

Farooq Abdullah Warns Against Use Of Force In Ladakh, Bats For Congress

He urged the central government to resolve the issue instead of "beating around the bush."

Srinagar:

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has issued a warning to the central government against employing force on Ladakh residents following recent violence. The three-time Jammu and Kashmir chief minister stated that unrest and violence in Ladakh emerged due to unfulfilled promises by the central government. He dismissed allegations that the Congress party or activist Sonam Wangchuk instigated the violence.

"Ladakh is a sensitive area. China has not accepted the McMahon Line. The government should address real issues instead of silencing people," said Mr Abdullah.

Mr Abdullah attributed the civilian unrest to empty promises made after Article 370's abrogation and Jammu and Kashmir's division into two Union Territories - J&K and Ladakh. He explained that violence erupted when youth abandoned their hunger strike location. "They (the youth) abandoned the Gandhian way and resorted to stone pelting and setting buildings on fire," he said.

The former chief minister rejected assertions that Congress orchestrated the Ladakh violence. "Congress doesn't have any large footprint. This is the voice of the people," said Mr Abdullah.

He called on the central government to resolve the matter rather than "beating around the bush."

"We were also promised delimitation, elections, and statehood. But we didn't get statehood as promised," Mr Abdullah said.

He further explained that violence occurred when Ladakhi youth decided to abandon Sonam Wangchuk's protest approach. "I don't think he's involved in any of these activities. Now they are conducting a CBI inquiry against Sonam Wangchuk. If they use agencies and force, I'm sorry to tell the government that the situation has exploded. Don't use power. You've used enough power. Start talks and come to a conclusion about what you want to give," said Mr Abdullah.

Police have initiated a major crackdown following yesterday's violence and arson in Ladakh. Approximately 50 individuals have been arrested during pre-dawn raids and searches in Leh.

Police have also filed an FIR charging Congress councillor Phuntsog Stanzin Tsepag in connection with the violence. However, it remains unclear whether the Leh Hill Council councillor is among those detained in the recent crackdown.

The Centre has additionally blamed climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and his "provocative speeches" for triggering the widespread violence. At least four protesters lost their lives and 90 others were injured in clashes and security forces' firing.