Emphasises peace, responsibility and cooperation
Leh, Sept 27: Ladakh Director General of Police S.D. Singh Jamwal on Saturday urged citizens to maintain calm and unity in the aftermath of Wednesday’s violent protests in Leh, stressing that police action was taken only as a last resort to save lives and prevent greater destruction.
Acknowledging the gravity of the events, Jamwal said the situation was unprecedented and painful, but insisted that security personnel acted in self-defence under extreme circumstances.
“Our priority was to protect lives and prevent the town from burning. The forces performed commendably by bringing the situation under control within hours,” he said.
The violence, which erupted during a protest for statehood, left four people dead and scores injured. Protesters had set a political office on fire and pelted stones at security forces, while around 70–80 police and CRPF personnel, including women constables, were also injured. Jamwal emphasised that action by the forces prevented further casualties and safeguarded government offices and public spaces.
On the causes of the unrest, Jamwal pointed to the role of “vested interests” and expressed concern over the influence of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk.
He said Wangchuk’s speeches invoking global movements like the Arab Spring had contributed to tensions, and noted that investigations were underway into alleged foreign funding, possible violations of FCRA norms, and suspected links with a recently arrested Pakistani intelligence operative.
“The process is ongoing, and facts will be placed before the people once established. Our focus remains on ensuring peace and stability in Ladakh,” he said.
Expressing empathy for those affected, the DGP appealed for peace and restraint. “Peace will only come when every citizen shoulders responsibility. Ladakh has always been known for harmony and resilience, and I am confident its people will stand by peace again,” he said.
Jamwal also highlighted the sacrifices and service of the police force, recalling their round-the-clock rescue work during floods, landslides, and snowstorms.
He noted that 1,800 government jobs have been advertised, alongside a police recruitment drive, and encouraged the youth to join hands in building a secure and progressive Ladakh.
While probes continue into the wider conspiracy behind the unrest, Jamwal stressed that the immediate focus must remain on preventing further violence and safeguarding Ladakh’s future.
“We do not want force here; we want peace. Together with the people, we can ensure Ladakh’s stability, safety, and growth,” he said
The DGP said Sonam Wangchuk is being probed for allegedly having links with Pakistan on the back of last month’s arrest of a Pakistani Intelligence Operative who sent videos of his protests across the border.
Jamwal described Wangchuk as the key person behind Wednesday’s violence that claimed the lives of four people and injured scores of others.
“What has been found in the investigation (against Wangchuk) cannot be disclosed at this moment. The process is going on and if you look at his profile and history, it is all available on YouTube. His speech worked as instigation as he talked about the Arab spring and the recent unrest in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
“He had his own agenda. There is a probe of foreign funding, violation of FCRA against him … We have a PIO with us who was reporting across the border, sending videos of the protests led by Wangchuk.
The police chief also cited some of Wangchuk’s foreign visits, and termed them as suspicious.
“He attended an event by The Dawn in Pakistan and also visited Bangladesh,” Jamwal told reporters here.
“Just a day before the informal meeting, a deliberate attempt was made to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere through provocative videos and statements which culminated with violence on Wednesday and unfortunate deaths,” he said.
