Retired IAF Officer Warns: Politics is Tearing Apart the Spirit of Ladakh!

The serene landscape of Ladakh, known for its warm “Juley” greetings and resilient people, was marred by tragedy on September 24, when a protest in Leh turned violent, resulting in the deaths of four Ladakhis in police firing. Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Manmohan Bahadur, in an impassioned plea, urges stakeholders to restore harmony in this strategically vital region, home to a hardy community that has long supported India’s security forces. The unrest, fuelled by rising aspirations and socio-economic shifts, threatens the deep bond between Ladakhis and the armed forces, a relationship critical to India’s defence along its northern frontier.

Bahadur, whose connection to Ladakh began in 1978 as a young flying officer and continued through decades of service, reflects on the region’s unique spirit. Ladakhis, shaped by a harsh environment with winter temperatures plunging below minus 30 degrees, have been integral to India’s military efforts. From constructing makeshift runways in 1948 for Air Commodore Mehar Singh’s historic Dakota landing to toiling on airfields like Chushul and Fukche, locals have been the backbone of logistics in remote outposts like Daulat Beg Oldie. Their courage shines through in conflicts, from the 1948 defence against Pakistani raiders to Operation Meghdoot in Siachen, with heroes like Colonel Chewang Rinchen and Colonel Sonam Wangchuk earning Maha Vir Chakras for their valour.

Recent changes, however, have introduced new dynamics. Tourism, bolstered by improved connectivity and internet access, has become a major livelihood alongside traditional farming, raising the aspirations of Ladakh’s youth. While this is a positive development, it has also sparked frustrations over limited employment opportunities, contributing to the recent unrest. The violent protest has alarmed veterans, with social media posts reflecting their grief and concern. Bahadur warns that this “dissonance of public strife” risks weakening the intangible “rear” support that Ladakhis provide to the armed forces, a foundation critical in a region bordering adversarial neighbours.

Also Read: Rajvir Jawanda’s Wife Says He Ignored Her Final Safety Warning

To heal these wounds, Bahadur calls for enlightened statesmanship to rebuild trust and confidence. Short-term peace efforts by local authorities must be complemented by long-term strategies to address youth aspirations without divisive politics. As adversaries exploit the turmoil online, the need for unity is urgent. Ladakh, a land of resilience and sacrifice, deserves a healing hand to preserve its harmony and strategic importance to India.

Also Read: Tejashwi Yadav Confirms Dual Contest Strategy for Upcoming Bihar Polls 2025