Srinagar: Ladakh LG VK Saxena approved Wednesday withdrawal of cases against 20 of the 81 people who faced criminal charges for “rioting and arson” after violent statehood protests in Leh last Sept 24 that left four people dead in police firing and wounded nearly 90.“The cases have been withdrawn under section 360 of BNSS on the recommendation of Ladakh police following a comprehensive review of the status of investigations into the cases,” a govt spokesperson said.Of 87 accused identified in rioting cases, 81 were arrested and criminal proceedings initiated against them. Following the review, police recommended withdrawal of charges against 20, the spokesperson said. LG’s office did not comment on the status of the remaining 61 accused.LG’s office called the move significant for peace, public tranquillity and social harmony in Ladakh. On Sept 13, Saxena sanctioned Rs 15 lakh compensation to the next of kin of each of the four dead. He also approved ex gratia of Rs 3 lakh for those with major wounds and Rs 1 lakh for minor injuries.
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On Sept 24 last year, police opened fire after protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh turned violent. Authorities imposed curfew-like restrictions, suspended mobile internet and arrested 81 people.Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance later refused talks with Union govt until a judicial inquiry commission was announced. On Oct 17, 2025, Union home ministry announced a judicial probe, with the commission begging work on Oct 27. It is yet to submit its report.After the probe was announced, Centre held talks with LAB and KDA representatives. Ladakh groups said Centre had assured withdrawal of cases against those arrested in Sept 2025 and compensation for victims and those wounded.
