Ladakh Crackdown: 50 Arrested After Violent Protests Over Statehood Demands

Sep 25, 2025 02:59 pm CST

Following violent protests in Ladakh demanding statehood and constitutional protections, authorities have conducted pre-dawn raids resulting in approximately 50 arrests. The unrest, allegedly incited by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, left four dead and 90 injured after protesters burned down the BJP office and Ladakh Hill Council Secretariat. Central government officials have blamed Wangchuk's provocative speeches referencing Nepal's Gen Z protests, while local leaders claim Home Minister Amit Shah rejected their fundamental demands for greater autonomy.