Leh Violence Probe: Judicial Commission to Begin Recording Oral Statements on December 19

The Judicial Inquiry Commission, chaired by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Dr B S Chauhan, will initiate the recording of oral statements from Friday, December 19, as part of its detailed investigation into the violent incidents that occurred in Leh on September 24. This phase follows an initial review of written submissions and proceedings, marking a significant advancement in efforts to uncover the full circumstances surrounding one of the most serious disturbances in Ladakh's history.

The violence unfolded during large-scale protests organised by groups advocating for full statehood for the Ladakh Union Territory and its inclusion under the protective provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. In the ensuing confrontation, police firing resulted in four fatalities and injuries to approximately 80 persons, while protesters set ablaze the local BJP office, the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Leh building, and numerous private and public vehicles, underscoring the intensity of the unrest in the otherwise tranquil cold desert region.

The commission will summon officials and duty officers present on the day of the incident to appear in person and provide detailed oral accounts before Justice Chauhan. Additionally, those who have previously submitted written statements will be called to elaborate further, ensuring a comprehensive examination of testimonies that could clarify conflicting narratives and establish accountability.

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Established in response to demands from the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, who rejected an earlier magisterial inquiry as insufficient, the judicial probe represents a higher-level commitment to impartiality. The inquiry's objectives include constructing an accurate factual timeline, fostering transparency, and upholding due process to address concerns raised by all stakeholders involved in the agitation.

Notable repercussions from the event include the invocation of the National Security Act against renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, whose indefinite hunger strike had amplified the demands for constitutional safeguards; he remains detained in Jodhpur jail. The central government's decision to constitute this judicial commission has facilitated the resumption of stalled negotiations between the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ladakh leadership, offering potential pathways toward resolution of longstanding regional grievances.

Also Read: SC to Hear Challenge Against Sonam Wangchuk’s Preventive Detention Under NSA