LEH: A complete and peaceful shutdown was observed across Leh district on Wednesday as markets and commercial establishments remained closed following a shutdown call by the Merchant Association Leh in solidarity with the family of a minor girl from Khaltsi, who was kidnapped and subsequently rescued by Police within a day.
However, the traffic, both public and private, operated smoothly. Zanskar town also observed complete shutdown on the call of Zanskar Buddhist Association (ZBA). The protest was called after reports of an alleged sexual assault case surfaced, triggering widespread public concern and demand for justice.
Speaking to media-persons, Tsering Angchuk, President, Merchant Association Leh, said the call for a full-day bandh was given after an appeal was received from community and religious organisations seeking collective support for the victim and her family. “On behalf of all merchant associations, we have announced a complete shutdown of shops, wholesalers and distributors for the entire day to express our solidarity and to seek justice for the victim,” he stated.
Angchuk also appreciated the Ladakh Police for their swift and immediate action, noting that the accused had already been apprehended and relevant legal sections invoked. He added that a committee has also been constituted to ensure a thorough investigation and to ascertain whether any other persons were involved in the incident. “We are hopeful that justice will be delivered at the earliest,” he said.
While the bandh remained in force for the full day, limited relaxations were allowed by Merchant Association Leh for pre-committed and emergency requirements. Angchuk clarified that shops could briefly open to meet prior advance orders, including urgent needs related to retirements, New Year functions and essential bakery or restaurant supplies, so that people facing genuine emergencies were not inconvenienced.
Initially, a half-day shutdown had been announced. However, following increased public demand and consultations with shopkeepers and organisations, the decision was revised to observe a complete full-day bandh.
Meanwhile, solidarity protests were also witnessed in other parts of the district. A complete bandh was observed in Zanskar and Sham Valley as well, on the call of the Zanskar Buddhist Association (ZBA) and LBA Sham Valley, with markets and commercial establishments remaining shut to express collective outrage and to press for speedy justice in the case.
The bandh reflected strong public sentiment across Ladakh, with community organisations and traders uniting to demand accountability and safety, particularly for women and minors.
