SRINAGAR: Ladakh in the Indian Illegally Occupied Kashmir has been placed under curfew following violent protests over demands to grant the region full statehood.
The protests turned violent after demonstrators clashed with police in the city of Leh. In response, authorities imposed a curfew across the region.
Security forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), have been deployed in tense areas, and rallies without prior permission have been banned. Additionally, markets and business centers throughout the city have been closed to prevent further unrest.
The clashes proved deadly. Reports indicate that four people were killed and more than 80 others injured, including police personnel.
Protesters reportedly set vehicles on fire and targeted local offices of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), causing significant damage. In response, Indian security forces used batons and tear gas to disperse the crowds.
The protests were sparked by demands to grant Ladakh full statehood. This follows the 2019 decision by the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to revoke the special constitutional status of the region and separate it from Indian-administered Kashmir.
The move has remained highly controversial and continues to fuel tensions in the region.
