Leh is being turned into ‘war zone’: Sonam Wangchuk says ahead of his 'Pashmina March'
Prohibitory orders, along with internet restrictions, have been enforced in Ladakh ahead of the scheduled border march led by renowned climate activist and education reformer, Sonam Wangchuk. The march, termed the 'Pashmina March', was intended to draw attention to the ground realities in Ladakh and was part of the ongoing agitation for statehood. Wangchuk, who is currently observing a hunger strike in Leh, urged the people of Ladakh to refrain from participating in the march and instead raise their voices from their respective locations on Sunday.
The 'Pashmina March' was expected to witness the participation of thousands of individuals, aiming to proceed towards the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Wangchuk, famous for inspiring the character in the film '3 Idiots', asserted that the march aimed to shed light on the alleged encroachment of over 4,000 square kilometers of land by China.
Expressing concern over the heightened security measures in Leh, Wangchuk described the situation as akin to a "war zone", citing the deployment of security forces equipped with smoke grenades, riot gear, and barricades. He criticized the administration for resorting to disproportionate force and for attempting to quell a peaceful movement through intimidation tactics.
The Apex Body of Leh, a key organization spearheading the statehood agitation, echoed Wangchuk's sentiments, labeling the situation as resembling a "war zone". Despite withdrawing the planned march in the interest of public safety, the Apex Body affirmed its commitment to continue peaceful protests advocating for Ladakh's statehood.
Wangchuk initiated the call for the 'Pashmina March' on March 27, following the conclusion of his 21-day hunger strike demanding statehood for Ladakh and the protection of the rights of its tribal population under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
In response to the proposed march, the authorities issued two separate orders on Friday. One order, issued by the Additional Director General of Police, Ladakh, cited concerns regarding the potential misuse of mobile data and public WiFi facilities to incite public unrest via social media platforms. Another order, issued by the District Magistrate of Leh, imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), restricting public gatherings, processions, rallies, and the use of loudspeakers without permission.
Wangchuk also alleged that protesters were being coerced by the police into signing bonds, pledging not to participate in the march. He emphasized the need for restraint and cautioned against instigating unrest in the region, highlighting its sensitivity and the residents' unwavering commitment to the nation.
The demand for statehood for Ladakh gained momentum following its establishment as a separate Union Territory in August 2019. Despite efforts by the central government to address the demands through dialogue, a resolution has yet to be reached, leading to ongoing protests and demonstrations in the region.
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Schools in Mizoram's nine districts closed due to rain
Aizawl (PTI): All schools in nine districts of Mizoram remained closed on Tuesday due to heavy rain that has been lashing the northeastern state since the day before, an official said.
School Education Director Angela Zothanpuii said administrations of nine districts, including Aizawl, Kolasib, Lunglei and Mamit, announced school closure on Tuesday as a precautionary measure for students' safety.
However, schools in the southern districts of Hnahthial and Lawngtlai remained open following a slight improvement in weather conditions there, she said.
According to the India Meteorological Department, Serchhip recorded the highest rainfall at 70.5 mm in a 24-hour period, followed by Hnahthial 55 mm, Siaha 37.5 mm, and Aizawl 36 mm.
Khawzawl district reported 30 mm of rainfall, Mamit 25.9 mm, Kolasib 25 mm, Lawngtlai 17.5 mm, and Lunglei 2.2 mm during the same period, it said.
The weather department has forecast light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorm and lightning in Mizoram on Tuesday.
