A day after four individuals lost their lives and 90 others sustained injuries amidst escalating tensions in Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta convened a crucial security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. He urged heightened vigilance to maintain peace and security in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, Gupta echoed his appeal for unity, 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.” His remarks came in the context of a shutdown organized by a group within the Leh Apex Body (LAB) advocating for prompt discussions with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the attainment of statehood for Ladakh.
The security review focused on assessing the evolving situation across Ladakh, with Gupta underscoring the need for heightened vigilance, effective inter-agency coordination, and proactive measures to ensure public safety. The LG office communicated these developments through a post on X.
Key officials, including Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, DGP S D Singh Jamwal, alongside senior officers from the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), participated in the meeting. Gupta emphasized that the safety and welfare of citizens must remain the top priority for the administration, directing officials to maintain a vigilant monitoring system.
Gupta highlighted the importance of collaboration between civil and security agencies to promote a swift response to any emerging threats. He also called for reinforcing intelligence networks, enhancing community involvement in peace efforts, and preparing for any unforeseen incidents.
“Ladakh has always been a symbol of peace and brotherhood, but recent events show that anti-social elements are attempting to disrupt this climate,” Gupta noted. He urged the community not to succumb to provocations, reaffirming the commitment to safeguarding peace.
Discussing the development trajectory of Ladakh, Gupta pointed out the substantial progress made under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi since the region’s transition to a Union Territory in 2019. He declared, “Our focus is on building a prosperous, peaceful, and developed Ladakh. No disruptive force will derail this progress.”
Gupta appealed to the citizens to reject violence and expressed the government’s unwavering support for the people of Ladakh. “Every life is precious, and we are ensuring the best possible medical care for those injured,” he remarked.
Regarding the medical response to the casualties from Wednesday’s violence, Gupta provided details, stating that 90 patients were admitted to SNM Hospital in Leh. Out of these, three were pronounced dead upon arrival, and one was declared dead soon after. Seven patients exhibited critical injuries, 20 suffered major trauma, and 61 faced minor injuries. Gupta noted that although 50 patients were discharged on the same day, seven underwent significant surgeries, and a total of 45 blood transfusions were conducted.
“One critically injured patient was airlifted to New Delhi through an Indian Air Force aircraft for advanced treatment. Currently, 18 patients remain hospitalized, while 11 have been discharged today. The deceased individuals’ bodies have been released to their families following legal protocols,” Gupta explained.
Following the LG’s instructions, the deputy commissioner of Leh visited SNM Hospital to check on the injured and ensure they received all possible assistance alongside their families, as conveyed by an official spokesman.
