Farooq Abdullah, the President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has called on the BJP-led Central government to learn from the recent violence in Leh. The unrest erupted over long-standing demands for statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, which aims to protect the rights and aspirations of local populations.
During a press conference on Thursday, Abdullah attributed the violence, which resulted in four deaths and over 80 injuries, to growing frustration over unfulfilled promises. He pointed out that similar assurances had been made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir regarding statehood, yet those promises remain unrealized.
Abdullah emphasized that the unrest reflects local grievances rather than external influences. He cited the peaceful protests led by activist Sonam Wangchuk, who undertook a hunger strike and a barefoot march from Leh to Delhi, highlighting the community’s dedication to advocating for their rights.
Moreover, the JKNC chief raised concerns about security in border areas like Ladakh, especially in light of China’s destabilization efforts in the region. He urged the Centre to engage in sincere discussions with the people of Ladakh to address their rising aspirations and prevent further escalation of violence.
Eyewitness reports reveal that the protests turned violent when demonstrators torched BJP offices, police vehicles, and other buildings. In response, police deployed tear gas and live ammunition, exacerbating the conflict and worsening the situation.
Abdullah’s remarks resonate with many locals who feel their voices have been ignored in the decision-making processes affecting their lives. The protests in Leh symbolize a broader discontent within the region over governance and representation.
Activists and community leaders have echoed Abdullah’s call for the Central government to take these events seriously. The unrest serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in governance and the need for genuine engagement with the people.
As the situation continues to develop, locals fear that further violence may erupt if their demands for statehood and recognition of their rights remain unaddressed. The need for inclusive political dialogue is greater than ever.
