A day after violent clashes left four people dead and 90 injured in Leh, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta convened a security review meeting on Thursday. Gupta emphasized the urgent need for heightened vigilance to safeguard peace and ensure the safety of every citizen in Ladakh.
Calling for unity, Gupta stated, “Peace and harmony are the foundation of Ladakh’s identity. Together, we must protect this legacy and ensure the safety and security of every citizen.” His remarks came during a tense period following a shutdown ordered by a group advocating for discussions with the Centre regarding the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and statehood for Ladakh.
The security meeting addressed various emerging issues across the Union Territory, focusing on maintaining public order. In an official statement released on X, the LG’s office reported that Gupta highlighted the significance of seamless coordination among security agencies, stating, “We must adopt proactive measures to safeguard peace and security throughout the UT.”
Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, Director General of Police S D Singh Jamwal, and other senior officials from the Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police attended the meeting. Gupta reiterated that the safety of citizens remains the administration’s utmost priority, instructing officials to maintain robust monitoring of the situation.
“Close cooperation between civil and security agencies is paramount for a quick response to any challenge,” Gupta stressed. He also urged for enhanced intelligence networks to prevent disruptions from anti-social elements, reinforcing the need for community involvement in preserving peace. “Ladakh has always been known for its peace, and we must not allow these elements to disturb our atmosphere,” he added.
Gupta underscored the region’s developmental journey, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for significant progress in Ladakh since it gained Union Territory status in 2019. “Our focus is on building a prosperous, peaceful, and developed Ladakh,” he asserted. “No disruptive force will derail this progress.”
In his addresses, Gupta appealed for public restraint against violence, assuring that the government stands with the people of Ladakh. “Every life is precious; we assure the best medical care for those injured,” he stated. He outlined the comprehensive medical response to those affected by the recent violence, detailing the situation at SNM Hospital in Leh.
According to Gupta, 90 patients were admitted following the incident: three were dead on arrival, while four later succumbed to injuries. Seven patients are critically injured, 20 sustained major trauma, and 61 had minor injuries. Gupta mentioned a swift discharge process, with 50 patients released the same day and seven undergoing major surgeries. Notably, 45 blood transfusions occurred to meet urgent medical needs.
Additionally, one critically injured patient received airlifted care to New Delhi via an Indian Air Force aircraft for advanced treatment, showcasing the administration’s commitment to catering to medical emergencies.
The LG’s concern for the injured extended beyond statistics; he directed the Leh deputy commissioner to visit SNM Hospital, ensuring that adequate support is provided to the patients and their families. It reflects the compassion embedded within administrative protocols amid crisis.
The security review meeting not only addressed immediate responses but also laid the groundwork for long-term strategies to maintain peace in Ladakh. As tensions remain, community engagement and government responsiveness become vital factors in safeguarding the region’s renowned tranquility.
