PUDR: Statement Against Police Repression on Democratic Movements in Ladakh
October 4, 2025
People’s Union for Democratic Rights (PUDR) strongly condemns the large scale atrocities by the police on democratic movements in Ladakh. On 24 September 2025, four individuals lost their lives in a shooting incident in Ladakh, with over 50 others sustaining injuries. Additionally, more than 70 youths have reportedly been arrested.

During the crackdown, renowned environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested under the National Security Act (NSA) and sent to Jodhpur Jail. This response by the authorities has significant implications for the democratic process. The entire incident should be considered not only as a police operation aimed at upholding law and order but also within the framework of the prolonged peaceful advocacy by Ladakh residents concerning their legitimate concerns and requests over the past five years.
Sonam Wangchuk previously held two hunger strikes related to his demands, lasting 21 days in March 2024 and 16 days in October 2024. On 24 September 2024, he organized a march with 150 members from the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), aiming to arrive in Delhi by 2nd October. He was not granted permission to enter Delhi and was detained at the Singhu Border.
The people of Ladakh are seeking recognition and protection of their democratic rights. Their primary demands include the attainment of full statehood and the reinstatement of the legislative assembly, which was dissolved in 2019. Given that approximately 97% of Ladakh’s population comprises tribal communities, there is also a request for the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule.
The absence of the Sixth Schedule has led to concerns among the residents of Ladakh regarding local governance and resource management. Various development initiatives, including hotels, cafes, and other projects, are currently operated by external companies. Although Ladakh generates surplus electricity, 80 square kilometers of land in the Pang region have been allocated for a 13-gigawatt solar project.
On 21 March 2023, it was reported in the Rajya Sabha that 250 square kilometers of land in Pang, Debing, and Kharnak would be acquired for solar, wind, and battery energy. Additionally, discussions have taken place regarding seven hydroelectric projects aimed at generating 2,070.2 megawatts of electricity, and survey work has been completed for a 490-kilometer railway line from Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh) to Leh. Infrastructure developments such as roads (totaling 750 square kilometers), airports (including 39 helipads), 29 new bridges, and major construction projects are being promoted to support tourism.



