Deadly clashes erupt in India's Ladakh region during protests

At least four people were killed and dozens injured in clashes between police and protesters in India's Ladakh region on Wednesday. Demonstrators demanded greater autonomy and statehood for the northern territory.

24 sept 2025 - 21:57 • 3 min read

Officials reported that at least four people died and dozens were injured on Wednesday following clashes between police and protesters in India's remote Himalayan territory of Ladakh. Hundreds took to the streets in the northernmost territory, demanding greater autonomy and statehood.

Police said that five deaths were reported following the protests. A police officer, speaking anonymously to AFP news agency, confirmed the casualties. The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the demonstrations were instigated by "provocative" speeches from activist Sonam Wangchuck, who had been on a hunger strike since September 10.

According to the ministry, a political party office was attacked and set ablaze, and a police vehicle was also torched. More than 30 police personnel sustained injuries. A statement from the ministry added that "in self-defence, police had to resort to firing in which unfortunately some casualties are reported."

Following the events, authorities reportedly imposed restrictions on gatherings, prohibiting assemblies of more than four people. Images circulated by Indian media showed an abandoned police vehicle engulfed in flames, while local reports indicated that some young protesters threw stones at police, who responded with tear gas to disperse the crowds.

Ladakh's lieutenant governor, Kavinder Gupta, appealed for an end to the violence and a restoration of peace in a video message. Police fired tear gas and used batons to disperse demonstrators, injuring dozens, some of whom were reported to be in critical condition.

Demands for Autonomy and Statehood

Ladakh, a high-altitude desert region bordering China and Pakistan, lost its autonomous status in 2019 when it was separated from Jammu and Kashmir and placed under the direct administration of New Delhi. Protesters are now demanding statehood, job quotas for local residents, and special status to protect its tribal areas and establish elected local bodies.

The protests are also being held in solidarity with Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike for two weeks. Wangchuk stated that "social unrest arises when you keep young people unemployed and deprive them of their democratic rights." He later called for restraint and urged the youth to stop the "nonsense," stating that it only damages their cause.

Activists and local politicians have accused the Indian government of failing to address their concerns. While several rounds of talks have occurred, they have not yielded significant results. The next round of discussions is anticipated on October 6.

Ladakh holds strategic importance for India due to its long border with China, which was the site of deadly clashes between Indian and Chinese soldiers in 2020.