2 civilians cremated, curfew continues in Leh
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 28: With no relaxation in curfew, last rites of two persons who died during violence on September 24, were performed in Leh town today with only family members, religious members and two Leh Apex Body (LAB) members allowed to attend while the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) leaders left for talks scheduled to be held in New Delhi tomorrow.
The LAB leaders are, however, expected to leave for Delhi only after funeral of two remaining civilians killed in police and CRPF firing. Delay in their visit could lead to postponement of the meeting by a day, the sources said but added the meeting can be held late tomorrow evening if the Apex Body leaders reach capital by then.
The MHA had called three leaders each from LAB and KDA and Ladakh MP for talks in New Delhi on September 29.
Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp
The KDA leaders including Asgar Ali Karbalai, Sajjad Kargili and Kachu Feroz left Kargil for New Delhi today. However, the LAB leaders—Thupstan Chhewang and Chering Dorjay Lakruk attended funeral of Stanzin Namgyal at Tharpaling in Leh and Jigmet Dorjay at Devachan Turthod in Choglamsar. Cremation of two other civilians killed in firing is scheduled tomorrow and Apex Body leaders, religious persons and family members have been allowed to attend the last rites.
Click here to watch video
However, the civilians were not allowed to attend funerals in view of curfew imposed in Leh since September 24 which was relaxed only yesterday for two hours in two phases.
The last rites of the deceased were performed as per the Ladakhi tradition and customs amid tight security arrangements. Police and CRPF personnel in full riot gear were seen deployed in strength in the curfew-bound areas, while ITBP personnel were also seen staging a flag march during the day.
Sources said if the LAB leaders reach Delhi in time after attending funerals of two persons tomorrow, the meeting can be held by the evening. Otherwise, it will be rescheduled to September 30. However, the High Powered Committee (HPC) to be headed by Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai is scheduled for October 6 though the LAB and KDA have demanded its preponement.
“The situation remained by and large normal with no untoward incident reported from anywhere in Leh today,” an official said, adding mobile internet services in the town remained suspended.
Prohibitory orders banning assembly of five or more persons also remained in force in other major parts of the Union Territory, including Kargil.
The curfew was imposed in Leh town on Wednesday evening following widespread violent protests during a shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body youth wing to advance talks with the Centre on the demands for Statehood and extension of the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh. Four people were killed and scores of others were injured in clashes between protesters and security personnel, while over 50 people were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in rioting.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Ladakh Kavinder Gupta today chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the prevailing security situation in curfew-bound Leh town and reassured his commitment to protect people’s rights and cultural identity.
He appealed for calm, cooperation and upholding of Ladakh’s traditions of peace and said the Union Territory’s peace and brotherhood will not be allowed to be disturbed at any cost.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, Director General of Police S D Singh Jamwal, Additional Director General, CRPF, Rajesh Kumar and senior officers of the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
He said the officers briefed the Lt Governor on the latest developments, preparedness measures, and coordination among agencies to maintain peace and order in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, the Lt Governor underscored the paramount importance of maintaining law and order, reiterating that the administration will not tolerate any attempt to disturb the peace, harmony, and stability of Ladakh.
He issued a strong and clear message to anti-social and disruptive elements, warning them that strict action will be taken against anyone found trying to incite violence or create unrest.
At the same time, the Lt Governor reassured the people of Ladakh of the administration’s complete commitment to safeguarding their rights, aspirations, and cultural identity.
He appealed to the citizens to remain calm, cooperate with the authorities and continue upholding Ladakh’s age-old traditions of peace, brotherhood, and mutual respect.
“Ladakh belongs to its people, and the Government stands firmly with the locals in ensuring their safety, security, and prosperity. Together, we will not allow any divisive force to derail the peace and development of this region,” he affirmed.
Gupta also directed security agencies to maintain heightened vigilance, strengthen coordination, and ensure swift response to any emerging challenges.
He stressed that the administration’s priority is to protect the interests of the people while ensuring an environment conducive to growth and harmony.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
