Leh Under Section 163: No Rallies Allowed Without Prior Permission After Violence
Violent clashes erupted in Leh, Ladakh on Wednesday as students demanding full statehood for the union territory confronted police and security forces, resulting in four deaths and over 70 injuries.
The protests, supporting social activist Sonam Wangchuk who had been on a 15-day hunger strike, turned violent when demonstrators pelted stones at police, set fire to a BJP office and a CRPF vehicle. The administration has now banned unauthorized rallies and demonstrations in Leh.
Following the violence, Wangchuk ended his fast, expressing deep sorrow over the events. “This is a sad day for Ladakh. We have been following the path of peace for five years… Today we see our message of peace failing,” he said, appealing to young people to end the violence.
In response, the District Magistrate imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, prohibiting gatherings of five or more people without prior written permission. The order also restricts any statements that could disturb peace or create law and order problems.
The administration stated these measures were necessary to maintain peace and prevent further deterioration of the situation in the region.
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