CPI(M) Condemns ‘Brutal Repression’ in Ladakh, Urges Govt to Engage in Meaningful Negotiations

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) Thursday strongly condemned the “brutal repression” unleashed by the Union Territory administration against the people of Ladakh, resulting in the loss of four lives and several injuries. The party’s Politbureau expressed its deep concern over the government’s response to the peaceful protests demanding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

The people of Ladakh have been demanding statehood with a fully empowered legislature for the past six years. They also seek inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which would grant them constitutional safeguards and benefits enjoyed by other regions. ”Despite several rounds of negotiations, the BJP-led central government has consistently ignored these demands,” the CPI (M) s.

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As per media reports, the agitation for Ladakh’s statehood spiralled into violence, arson and street clashes in Leh on Wednesday, leaving four dead and at least 80 injured, including 40 police personnel.

The CPI(M) urged the central government to immediately cease all repressive measures and engage in meaningful negotiations with the representatives of the movement. The party also demanded adequate compensation for the families of those who lost their lives and those injured in the police repression.

According to the CPI(M) statement, “Even after creating the circumstances which are responsible for this violence in a traditionally peaceful place, the Central Government is now blaming the agitators.” The party emphasised the need for the government to respect the democratic aspirations of the people and engage in meaningful dialogue.

Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has alleged a conspiracy behind the protests, claiming that people were being incited by drawing parallels with youth-led movements in Bangladesh and Nepal. However, the CPI(M) and other Left parties have blamed the Modi government for the unrest, highlighting ”ignored statehood demands and suppression of democratic rights”.