Leh, Sep 27: Curfew remained in place in Leh for the fourth consecutive day on Saturday as police and paramilitary forces intensified patrolling following the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA), officials said.
The administration, in a late-night statement, defended Wangchuk’s detention, citing his “provocative speeches” with references to the Nepal agitation and Arab Spring, which it said triggered the September 24 violence that left four people dead and dozens injured. Authorities described the move as necessary to restore order and prevent further unrest.
Officials said the situation remained calm over the past 24 hours, with no fresh incidents reported. Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta is set to chair a high-level security review to decide on easing restrictions. Raids are continuing to trace alleged rioters, including a councillor accused of instigation.
Over 50 people have been detained since the clashes, while prohibitory orders on gatherings of more than five remain in force in other towns, including Kargil.
The Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) accused Wangchuk of pursuing “ulterior motives” despite the government’s offer of talks, and said his continued hunger strike and speeches misled people, leading to arson, attacks on police and loss of lives.
Authorities said he has been shifted from Leh to Jodhpur prison in Rajasthan under NSA provisions in the interest of maintaining public order.
