A day after tragic clashes left four dead and injured around 90 individuals in Leh, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta held a critical security review meeting on Thursday. This comes at a time when maintaining peace and security is paramount for the Union Territory.
Gupta emphasized unity among citizens, stating, “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.” This statement comes in light of a shutdown called by a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), pushing for expedited talks with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the much-anticipated statehood for Ladakh.
During the high-level meeting, which included Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, DGP S D Singh Jamwal, and senior officials from the Army and ITBP, the LG highlighted the need for heightened vigilance and inter-agency coordination. The LG’s office reiterated, “The safety and well-being of citizens remains the top priority of the administration.”
Gupta directed officials to establish a robust mechanism for monitoring the situation in real-time. He stressed the importance of cooperation between civil and security agencies to ensure swift responses to any emerging challenges. “Ladakh has always been known for its peace, harmony, and brotherhood,” Gupta noted, warning against attempts by anti-social elements to disturb this atmosphere.
The Lieutenant Governor also emphasized enhancing intelligence-gathering networks and ensuring community participation in safeguarding peace. “We must maintain peace at all costs,” the LG urged. He reassured the public of the government’s steadfast support. “Every life is precious, and we are ensuring the best possible medical care for those injured,” he assured.
Providing an update on the medical response for the casualties from Wednesday’s violence, Gupta reported that 90 patients were admitted to SNM Hospital, Leh. Tragically, three individuals arrived dead, and another was declared dead on arrival. Seven suffered critical injuries, while 20 encountered major trauma, and 61 had minor injuries. While 50 patients were discharged the same day, seven underwent major surgeries, with 45 blood transfusions administered.
Furthermore, the Lieutenant Governor confirmed that one critically injured patient was airlifted to New Delhi for advanced medical treatment. Currently, 18 patients remain hospitalized, with 11 discharged on the same day. The four deceased’s bodies have been handed over to their families after all legal formalities were completed.
In alignment with these events, the LG directed the Leh deputy commissioner to visit SNM Hospital to check on the patients and ensure they receive all possible assistance. These efforts reflect the administration’s commitment to addressing the well-being of the injured and their families.
As the situation continues to develop, Ladakh’s administration urges citizens to remain vigilant and united. The recent unrest has brought to light the significant need for community cohesion and proactive measures to prevent any recurrence of violence.
