Centre Orders Judicial Inquiry into Deadly Ladakh Clashes

Judicial Probe Launched into Leh Violence

The Indian Centre has ordered a judicial inquiry into the violent clashes that erupted in Leh, Ladakh, on September 24, 2025. The inquiry will be headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice B.S. Chauhan and aims to investigate the circumstances that led to the serious law and order situation, the subsequent police action, and the resultant four deaths. This decision, announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on October 17, 2025, addresses a key demand from protesting groups in Ladakh.

Details of the Violent Clashes

The violence in Leh stemmed from ongoing protests demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. On September 24, 2025, these protests escalated into clashes between security forces and demonstrators. Reports indicate that four individuals lost their lives, and between 70 to 90 people sustained injuries during the unrest. Protesters reportedly clashed with police, setting fire to a paramilitary vehicle and the office of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Security forces responded with tear gas and, allegedly, firing.

Demands for Statehood and Constitutional Safeguards

The movement for statehood and Sixth Schedule status in Ladakh has been ongoing since 2021, led primarily by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). Their demands include:

• Statehood for Ladakh
• Inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which provides provisions for tribal areas and greater autonomy
• Formation of the Ladakh Public Service Commission
• Two parliamentary seats for Ladakh
• Job reservation for locals

These groups argue that the region's transition to a Union Territory in 2019 eroded local rights and autonomy, leading to the current agitation.

Aftermath and Ongoing Tensions

Following the September 24 violence, authorities imposed curfew-like restrictions in Leh, suspended mobile internet services, and made numerous arrests. Among those arrested was environmental activist and LAB member Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike advocating for the demands. He was later charged under the National Security Act (NSA) for allegedly inciting the violence. The MHA has reiterated its commitment to dialogue with the LAB and KDA through the High-Powered Committee on Ladakh, expressing confidence that continuous discussions will yield positive results. Justice Chauhan will be assisted in the inquiry by retired District & Sessions Judge Mohan Singh Parihar as Judicial Secretary and IAS officer Tushar Anand as Administrative Secretary.