Yash Khajuria
Leh, Sept 25: A tense calm settled over Leh today as authorities imposed strict curfew measures, restricting public gatherings and unauthorized vehicle movement following a violent incident that shook the town on September 24. The unrest claimed four lives and left dozens injured, prompting a swift response from local administration and law enforcement.
In view of the prevailing situation, the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh has postponed the much-anticipated Ability Mela 2025, which was scheduled to be held on September 26 at Eco Park, Main Market, Leh. Citing unavoidable circumstances arising from the prevailing law and order situation, the government announced that the event has been deferred until further notice. Officials confirmed that a fresh date will be communicated in due course.
Alongside this announcement, the District Administration has extended the earlier directive mandating the closure of all educational institutions in Leh. The order specifies that government and private schools, Anganwadi centres, colleges, coaching institutes, and other educational establishments across the district shall remain closed for two days, effective September 26.
A government spokesperson stated that the Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh has directed the closure of all educational institutions across Leh district for two days beginning September 26, 2025. An official directive issued by the Office of the District Magistrate, Leh, cited the prevailing situation in the district as the reason for this decision.
The order mandates that all government and private schools, Anganwadi centres, colleges, coaching institutes, and other educational establishments remain closed during this period. The Chief Education Officer, college principals, and heads of institutions have been tasked with ensuring strict compliance.
District Magistrate Romil Singh Donk, IAS, approved the order, underscoring its binding nature on all concerned authorities. The communication has also been forwarded to senior officials, including the secretaries of the Home, Technical Education, Higher Education, and School Education departments of UT Ladakh, as well as the Senior Superintendent of Police, Leh, and the Director of School Education.
The Programme Officer of ICDS, Leh, and the Assistant Director of DIPR have also been directed to take necessary steps for compliance and publicity. Authorities emphasized that the measure was approved by the competent authority and must be adhered to in both letter and spirit.
The temporary suspension of academic activities marks a precautionary intervention by the district administration to manage the current circumstances in Leh.
In a briefing to the media, the Additional District Magistrate, accompanied by Additional SP of Ladakh Police Rigzin Sangdup, issued a detailed medical bulletin outlining the impact of the violence. The report stated that seven individuals sustained critical injuries, while 20 others suffered major trauma. Another 61 people were treated for minor injuries, with 50 discharged the same day after receiving first aid and initial care at the District Hospital in Leh. Among the critically injured, one patient was airlifted to Delhi for specialized treatment. Family members reported that the individual’s condition has stabilized and recovery is underway.
At present, 18 patients remain under medical care at the District Hospital, while 11 others were discharged today. The bodies of the four deceased were released to their families following post-mortem examinations conducted by the district administration.
Authorities appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement, stressing that public support is essential to restore order and prevent further disruption.
