Leh Violence: All schools and colleges in Leh will remain closed for two days, 50 arrested so far; read how the situation is

The situation in Leh remains tense. A curfew remained in effect in Leh on Thursday. Earlier, four protesters were killed in clashes with security forces. 90 people have been reported injured in the protests so far.

In view of the situation in the Union Territory, Leh District Magistrate Romil Singh Donak has ordered the closure of all government and private schools, colleges, and other educational institutions for two days, starting Friday. The District Magistrate stated that Anganwadi centers will also remain closed.

A police officer told PTI that the situation in the curfew-bound areas is under control. No incidents have been reported. However, given the current situation, schools have been announced to be closed for two days, starting Friday.

Sonam Wangchuk ends hunger strike.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk had to end his fortnight-long hunger strike due to the escalating violence. He condemned the violence.

Wangchuk said that this is the saddest day for Ladakh. The path we have been following for the last five years has been peaceful. He appealed to the youth to "immediately stop violence as it harms our movement."

However, the central government blamed Wangchuk for the unrest, alleging that the mob violence was inspired by his "inflammatory statements."

Wangchuk, meanwhile, described the Home Ministry's allegations as a "scapegoating tactic" aimed at avoiding addressing the core problems of the Himalayan region. The activist said he was ready to be arrested under the stringent Public Safety Act.

Wangchuk said, "They can cleverly make someone else a scapegoat, but they are not intelligent. At this time, we all need wisdom rather than 'cunning,' as the youth are already frustrated."

50 people detained

At least 50 people have been detained so far in connection with the violence that broke out during Wednesday's shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) to demand the extension of the Sixth Schedule and statehood for Ladakh.

The Union Territory has been witnessing a long-standing protest over various demands, including statehood, the extension of the Sixth Schedule, separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil, and reservation in employment.