Leh, Sept 24: The two-day Leh Festival was abruptly called off on Wednesday after violent protests broke out in the town, forcing the administration to cancel its concluding events.
Officials said unrest began when two elderly men participating in a hunger strike fell unconscious and were shifted to the hospital. The development sparked anger among protesters, who resorted to stone pelting and set a CRPF van on fire. Security forces were rushed in large numbers to restore order as the situation turned tense.
In the wake of the violence, the Union Territory administration announced the cancellation of the Leh Festival’s final day. The cultural event, which showcases Ladakhi heritage, was scheduled to conclude with a ceremony to be attended by the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta. Officials said the prevailing law and order situation made it impossible to go ahead with the programme.
The festival, considered one of Ladakh’s key cultural highlights, was intended to promote tourism and celebrate local traditions.
Authorities confirmed that additional security measures remain in place across Leh to prevent further disturbances. [KNT]
