Full Breakdown
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Withdraws Cases Against 20 Protesters Ahead of Violence Anniversary
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Core Event: Withdrawal of Criminal Cases
On September 23, 2026, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena announced the withdrawal of criminal charges against 20 individuals linked to the September 24, 2025 unrest in Leh. The cases were closed under Section 360 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) after a “comprehensive review” and a recommendation from Ladakh police.
Background & Context
The September 24, 2025 protests demanded statehood and Sixth Schedule safeguards. Police firing left four civilians dead and injured nearly 90 people. Of the 87 identified participants, 81 were arrested and faced charges for rioting and arson. A judicial probe was ordered by the Union Home Ministry on October 17, 2025, with the commission to begin on October 27, 2025. Compensation of Rs 15 lakh per deceased’s family, Rs 3 lakh for major injuries and Rs 1 lakh for minor injuries was approved earlier in September 2025.
Data & Statistics
- Identified accused: 87
- Cases withdrawn: 20 (including the four deceased)
- Fatalities: 4 civilians
Official Statements & Responses
Ladakh police cited a closure report for the 20 persons in FIR No. 144/2005 as the basis for the decision. The administration thanked Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his “constant guidance and sympathetic approach” to the victims and their families.
Criticism & Opposition
- Asgar Ali Karbalai, co-chairman of the Kargil Democratic Alliance, called the protest a demand for “democratic and constitutional rights” and warned that “draconian laws” on land issues remain unaddressed.
- Haji Mohammad Haneefa, Ladakh MP, accused the administration of “sabotaging” the process by introducing land laws and alleged an “attempt to divide and rule,” insisting the movement will not be weakened.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In the larger interest of peace, public tranquillity, and social harmony in Ladakh, I have approved the withdrawal of criminal cases against 20 individuals, related to the unfortunate violence that erupted in Leh on September 24 last year,” — Vinai Kumar Saxena.
- “The Ladakh police recommended a closure report for 20 individuals in FIR no. 144/2005, registered at PS - Leh, under Section 360 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS),” — Saxena.
- “By prioritizing justice and healing over protracted litigation, the decision aims at fostering a more peaceful, united, and harmonious society in Ladakh,” — Saxena.
Timeline
- September 24, 2025 – Protests turn violent; four civilians killed, dozens injured.
- October 17, 2025 – Union Home Ministry announces judicial probe; commission to start October 27, 2025.
- September 13, 2025 – Compensation of Rs 15 lakh per deceased’s family approved.
- September 23, 2026 – Lieutenant Governor announces withdrawal of cases against 20 individuals.
Why It Matters / Impact
The withdrawals reduce legal uncertainty for the 20 individuals and signal a shift toward reconciliation. Closing these prosecutions is intended to ease tensions surrounding Ladakh’s pending constitutional status discussions and the broader demand for Sixth Schedule protections.