Recent events in Ladakh have drawn national attention as violent protests erupted in Leh on 24 September 2025. This unrest comes at a time when India is strengthening its strategic infrastructure along its northern borders to counter China’s expansionist moves. The disturbance threatens both internal security and the fragile peace in this sensitive region. The root cause lies in Ladakh’s demand for constitutional safeguards and protection of its tribal identity, which remain unfulfilled since the Union Territory’s creation in 2019.
Background of Ladakh’s Status and Identity
Ladakh became a Union Territory on 5 August 2019 after Jammu and Kashmir’s bifurcation. The move was initially welcomed by locals who had long sought UT status. However, unlike some north-eastern states, Ladakh was not granted Sixth Schedule protections. These provisions safeguard tribal land, culture, and jobs. The absence of such guarantees led to growing fears of demographic and economic marginalisation among Ladakh’s small tribal population.
Emergence of Political Unity and Rising Discontent
Historically divided along religious lines—Buddhists in Leh and Shia Muslims in Kargil—Ladakhis united around shared demands for rights and political empowerment. This rare solidarity strengthened their voice but complicated New Delhi’s approach. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), once popular here, lost its lone Lok Sabha seat in 2024, reflecting local disenchantment. Unemployment and economic stagnation further fuelled frustration, especially among the youth.
The 2025 Leh Violence and its Triggers
The violence began when the youth wing of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) led protests that turned deadly, resulting in four deaths and many injuries. The immediate causes remain debated – some blame activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike and rhetoric, others point to political manoeuvres by veteran BJP leader Chewang Thupstan. The Centre’s delayed dialogue and failure to consult protesters before scheduling talks aggravated tensions. The unrest also involved attacks on government offices and political party headquarters.
Government Response and Political Fallout
The government’s reaction included blaming opposition leaders and activists for inciting violence. Such accusations hardened divides and complicated peace efforts. The Home Ministry’s direct naming of Wangchuk and BJP’s IT cell accusing Congress leaders heightened political polarisation. Meanwhile, Ladakh’s youth called for urgent talks and concrete action on their demands, especially regarding employment and constitutional safeguards.
Unemployment and Economic Vulnerability
A recent survey brought into light Ladakh’s severe unemployment, with 26.5 per cent of graduates jobless—double the national rate. This economic distress intensifies fears of outsiders taking over jobs and land. Without Sixth Schedule protections, locals feel increasingly vulnerable to demographic changes and marginalisation. Addressing employment is crucial to restoring stability.
Strategic Importance and National Security
Ladakh’s unrest weakens India’s defence posture against China’s assertiveness along the Line of Actual Control. Internal instability risks emboldening external threats. The region’s peace is vital for national security. The government must prioritise genuine dialogue and swift action to protect Ladakh’s identity and ensure economic opportunities for its people.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of constitutional safeguards like the Sixth Schedule in protecting tribal identities in India. With suitable examples, discuss their effectiveness and limitations.
- Explain the strategic importance of Ladakh in India’s national security framework. How does internal unrest in border regions impact India’s defence preparedness?
- What are the socio-economic challenges faced by youth in remote and tribal regions of India? Comment on the impact of unemployment on regional stability.
- Critically examine the role of political unity among diverse communities in conflict-prone regions. How can such unity influence demands for rights and governance? Illustrate with examples from India.
