Ladakh Director General of Police (DGP) SD Singh Jamwal on Saturday alleged that provocative speeches by “so-called environmental activists,” including climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, incited violence during the September 24 protests in Leh that left four people dead and scores injured.
Addressing a press conference, the DGP claimed that 5,000–6,000 people attacked government offices and political party buildings, pelting stones and setting one party office on fire. Several CRPF and police personnel, including women officers, were trapped inside buildings during the attack.
“An unfortunate incident occurred on September 24. Four lives were lost, and many civilians, police, and paramilitary officers were injured. Some activists tried to sabotage the ongoing talks with the Centre. Sonam Wangchuk was at the forefront of these attempts,” Jamwal said.
He further alleged that provocative speeches and videos on social media increased in the days leading up to the Centre’s scheduled talks with Ladakh leaders, calling them “dangerous for law and order.”
The DGP confirmed that police firing led to four civilian deaths, saying it was necessary to stop the “massive attack.” Around 70–80 security personnel and an equal number of civilians were injured, with several in critical condition, including a woman airlifted to Delhi for treatment.
When asked about possible foreign involvement, Jamwal said investigations were underway but noted the presence of Nepalese labourers in the region.
Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk has been detained under the National Security Act (NSA) and shifted to Jodhpur Central Jail. Authorities accused him of inciting violence amid the protests, which were originally launched to demand statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
