Complete strike marks first anniversary of four killings by Indian forces in Ladakh
20-km march led by Sonam Wangchuk in Leh; protest march also held in Kargil
Leh: Tensions have once again escalated in the Ladakh region of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir on the first anniversary of the killing of four people in firing by Indian forces during protests in Leh on this day last year.
According to the Kashmir Media Service, on September 24, 2025, Indian forces’ personnel opened indiscriminate fire on demonstrations, killing four people and injuring over hundred others. The protesters were demanding statehood for the region and safeguards protection under Sixth Schedule of the Indian constitution.
A complete strike was observed across the region today. Shops & business establishments remained closed in Leh andKargil, and streets were largely deserted. The day was observed in Ladakh as “Martyrs’ Day”, while Leh and Kargil also witnessed tribute and remembrance programmes for the slain protesters.
A 20-kilometer symbolic march was held in Leh, led by the region’s renowned environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, while a protest march was also held in Kargil in memory of those killed in Leh last year. The march led by Sonam Wangchuk began on Wednesday morning from the Kharu area of Leh, with representatives of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) also participating.
In a statement, Wangchuk said the administration was opening liquor shops in villages across Ladakh while crores of rupees were being spent on festivals, whereas the families of those who sacrificed their lives last year to protect Ladakh’s culture and environment were being offered compensation of only 1.5 million (15 lakh) rupees.
He said once a democratic system was established in the region, major decisions regarding land, liquor policy, industry, and tourism would be taken collectively.
A ceremony was held in Leh following the march to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives last year. Leh Apex Body (LAB) Chairman Chering Dorjay Lakruk said they remained steadfast in their demands and would not back down under any circumstances.
