The ongoing unrest in Leh saw a turn of events with the arrest of two Nepalese nationals accused of attacking police during the violent protests. Officials
confirmed that both sustained gunshot injuries in the clashes. So far, nearly 60 protesters have been arrested, though police say some were released after no role was found. Among those detained are individuals from Nepal and Doda, raising concerns over the presence of outsiders in the agitation. Police sources added that four Nepalese nationals were injured in the violence, two of them arrested, two others under treatment, suggesting deeper foreign involvement in the unrest. The arrested protesters have been shifted to SNM Hospital for medical examination before being produced in court. More arrests are likely as investigations continue.
Also Read: What's Behind Ladakh's Youth Protests and Sonam Wangchuk's Agitation | EXPLAINED
Earlier, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was also questioned over his controversial remarks likening the Ladakh agitation to Nepal's 'Gen-Z revolution'. Ending his fast on Wednesday, Wangchuk had remarked that the protests in Leh were a 'Gen-Z revolution' and that the young people were agitated over unemployment and their "democratic rights being snatched".
In September, large-scale anti-corruption protests and demonstrations took place across Nepal, predominantly organised by Gen Z students and young citizens, leading to the fall of the Nepal government.
Also Read: Arab Spring in Leh? Sonam Wangchuk Confronted as MHA Links Him to Ladakh Violence | WATCH
Ladakh protests
Ladakh is in turmoil as simmering discontent spilled onto the streets of Leh, with massive protests, shutdowns, and clashes between police and demonstrators. The agitation, intensified by Wangchuk's hunger strike, turned violent after a group of youths allegedly pelted stones and police resorted to firing teargas shells.
The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday issued a statement and asserted that the mob was incited by Sonam Wangchuk through his provocative statements, which led to the loss of lives in Leh.
"In spite of many leaders urging him to call off the hunger strike, he continued with the hunger strike and misled the people through provocative mention of Arab Spring-style protests and references to Gen Z protests in Nepal," MHA said.
So far, four people have died and 50 have been injured in the protests. A fresh round of talks is scheduled between the Centre and Ladakh representatives, comprising members of the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, on October 6.
