Climate activist and Leh Apex Body (LAB) member Sonam Wangchuk has described the latest discussions between Ladakh representatives and the Centre as a “big disappointment”, saying the assurances being considered for people affected by last year’s Leh violence cover only the immediate six-month period. Wangchuk said the government needs to address the concerns of victims and their families more comprehensively and indicated that he would wait until October 2 for a response.
His remarks come a year after four civilians were killed during violent protests in Leh on September 24, 2025. The Centre, meanwhile, has maintained that it remains committed to dialogue and to creating an atmosphere of peace and mutual trust in Ladakh.
‘Big Disappointment’
Wangchuk said the latest round of talks had failed to provide the kind of resolution that victims and their families were seeking. He questioned what would compensate people for the disruption and losses they experienced following last year’s agitation, while also referring to his own six-month detention under the National Security Act. “Who will return those six months stolen from me?” he asked.
Wangchuk has also criticised the compensation announced for the families of those killed in the September 2025 violence, arguing that ₹15 lakh per family was inadequate and demanding substantially higher assistance. The Ladakh Administration has defended its relief measures, while the Centre has said it is engaging with stakeholders to address the aspirations and concerns of people in the Union Territory.
A Year After The Leh Violence
The disagreement comes amid continuing demands in Ladakh for statehood, constitutional safeguards, greater political representation and protection of land, jobs, culture and the region’s fragile environment. On September 24, 2025, protests in Leh turned violent, and four civilians were killed in police firing. Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike at the time, was detained under the NSA two days later and remained in custody for around six months before the Centre revoked his detention in March 2026.
The Ministry of Home Affairs said the decision was intended to help foster “peace, stability, and mutual trust” and facilitate constructive dialogue with stakeholders. A judicial inquiry headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice B S Chauhan was also ordered to examine the circumstances surrounding the September 24 incident. A year later, Wangchuk has demanded that its findings be made public, while the issue of compensation and accountability remains part of the wider dispute.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The continuing disagreement over the aftermath of the Leh violence shows why dialogue must go beyond meetings and assurances and translate into outcomes that affected communities can understand and trust. For families who lost loved ones, financial assistance is important, but so are transparency, accountability and a credible process for addressing unresolved questions.
At the same time, sustained and peaceful engagement between Ladakh’s representatives and the Centre remains important to prevent further tensions and find solutions through democratic means. As October 2 approaches, a constructive response should prioritise the dignity of victims, open communication and peaceful coexistence rather than allowing differences to deepen. What steps do you think could help rebuild trust between Ladakh’s representatives and the Centre while ensuring justice and meaningful dialogue?
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