India has imposed a curfew in Ladakh following deadly clashes between protesters and police, resulting in four deaths. The incident has heightened tensions over political demands for full statehood in the region, where leaders are pushing for greater autonomy. The protests, which have been escalating for weeks, stem from longstanding grievances among the local population, who feel increasingly marginalized despite the region’s strategic and economic significance.
Leaders in Ladakh have called for the region to be granted full statehood, mirroring the status of other union territories such as Jammu and Kashmir and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This demand has fueled ongoing discussions in New Delhi about the political future of the area, with the central government maintaining its stance on maintaining control over the region’s governance.
The curfew, which has been extended beyond the initial restrictions, is intended to prevent further unrest and ensure public safety. However, the measure has drawn criticism from some quarters, with concerns about the impact on the civilian population and the potential for further escalation of tensions. The situation in Ladakh continues to be a flashpoint for broader debates about regional autonomy and governance in India.