A day after violent clashes resulted in four fatalities and injured 90 others in Leh, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta convened a pivotal security review meeting on Thursday. This meeting aimed at reinforcing peace and stability in Ladakh amid ongoing tensions.
Gupta emphasized the importance of safeguarding tranquility, stating, “Peace and harmony are the foundation of Ladakh’s identity. Together, we must protect this legacy and ensure the safety and security of every citizen.”
The unfortunate shutdown of Leh followed demands from a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) advocating for expedited discussions with the Centre. These talks focus on the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution’s extension and the demand for statehood in Ladakh.
During the meeting, Gupta conveyed the emerging security situation’s urgency, highlighting the necessity for enhanced vigilance and better inter-agency collaboration. He urged officials to take proactive measures to maintain public order across the Union Territory.
The LG was joined by Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, DGP S D Singh Jamwal, and senior officers from the Army and ITBP, underscoring the meeting’s gravity.
Gupta reiterated the administration’s primary focus on citizen safety, directing officials to implement a continuous monitoring system of the ground situation. He called for robust partnerships between civil and security agencies to ensure fast responses to potential challenges.
“Ladakh has always been known for its peace, harmony, and brotherhood,” Gupta noted. However, he warned about looming threats, asserting, “Certain anti-social elements are trying to disturb this atmosphere. I urge the people not to fall prey to such attempts. We must maintain peace at all costs.”
The Lieutenant Governor also praised Ladakh’s developmental strides since gaining Union Territory status in 2019 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Gupta assured that no disruptive forces would derail the region’s growth and prosperity.
He appealed for restraint, promising full support from the government. “Every life is precious; we are ensuring the best possible medical care for those injured,” he stated, addressing public concerns following the violence.
In response to the medical needs arising from Wednesday’s clashes, Gupta revealed that a total of 90 patients were admitted to SNM Hospital in Leh. His report detailed the injuries sustained: three individuals were dead on arrival, while seven suffered critical injuries, with others varying from major trauma to minor injuries. A total of 50 patients were discharged the same day, and seven underwent major surgeries, with 45 blood transfusions given.
As part of ongoing medical support, Gupta noted that one critically injured patient had been airlifted to New Delhi for advanced treatment. Currently, 18 patients remain hospitalized, with 11 others successfully discharged that day. The deceased have been handed over to their families post-legal formalities.
To ensure comprehensive care, Gupta directed the Leh deputy commissioner to visit SNM Hospital to monitor the injured’s well-being and ensure families received all necessary assistance.
As Ladakh grapples with these challenges, the administration’s commitment to restoring normalcy appears resolute. Authorities strive to maintain peace, reinforcing the region’s identity as a beacon of unity and harmony.
In summary, heightened vigilance remains paramount as Ladakh moves forward from recent unrest. Gupta’s proactive measures and public appeals highlight the importance of community cohesion in overcoming current challenges.
