New Delhi: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Wednesday approved the withdrawal of criminal cases against 20 people booked in connection with the violence that broke out in Leh on September 24, 2025.
The decision was taken in the interest of peace, public tranquillity and social harmony in Ladakh. Saxena said the move would allow the individuals involved to move forward with their personal lives and careers without prolonged legal proceedings.
The Ladakh Police had recommended filing closure reports in the cases following a detailed review. The cases were registered at the Leh police station in connection with the violence that occurred during protests in the region.
The administration had indicated in August that closure reports would be filed in cases involving certain individuals linked to the September 24 violence.
The development came a day after representatives of the Kargil Democratic Alliance and the Leh Apex Body held discussions with officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs in Leh. The decision was also announced on the eve of the first anniversary of the incident.
The September 24, 2025 protests were linked to demands for statehood and safeguards for Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The demonstrations later turned violent, resulting in the deaths of four people and injuries to several others.
Following the violence, the Union Territory administration ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident.
On Wednesday, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk led a symbolic padyatra in Leh to mark the first anniversary of the violence. He also announced that September 24 would be observed as Shaheed Diwas.
The withdrawal of the cases comes as Ladakh marks a year since the unrest, with the administration emphasising reconciliation and social harmony while the wider demands surrounding the region continue to remain a subject of discussion.
