New Delhi, October 18, 2025:
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has constituted a Judicial Commission to investigate the violent clashes that erupted in Ladakh’s Leh and Kargil regions in September 2025. The move comes amid growing public demand for transparency and accountability over the handling of the incident, which left several civilians and security personnel injured.
According to the official statement, the commission will be headed by Justice (Retd.) Anil Kaul, former judge of the Delhi High Court, and will probe the circumstances leading to the violence, administrative lapses, and actions taken by law enforcement agencies during and after the unrest.
🕊️ Background: What Triggered the Violence
The September clashes reportedly began after a protest march by local groups turned violent following a dispute over land allocation and administrative autonomy. The situation quickly escalated, leading to stone-pelting, property damage, and deployment of additional paramilitary forces to restore order.
Authorities imposed temporary curfews and suspended mobile internet services in parts of Leh and Kargil to control the situation. The violence reignited discussions over Ladakh’s demand for statehood and Sixth Schedule status, which locals argue is crucial for protecting their land, culture, and employment rights.
🧾 What the Judicial Commission Will Do
The MHA’s Judicial Commission has been given a three-month mandate to conduct a comprehensive inquiry. Its key responsibilities include:
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Investigating the sequence of events that led to the clashes.
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Examining the role of local administration and security forces.
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Assessing whether standard operating procedures (SOPs) were followed.
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Recommending measures to prevent future conflicts.
The commission has also been directed to hear testimonies from local residents, officials, and eyewitnesses, and submit a detailed report to the MHA by January 2026.
🗣️ Official Reactions
Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the government remains “committed to maintaining peace and harmony in Ladakh” and that “no lapse, administrative or otherwise, will be overlooked.”
Local leaders have welcomed the inquiry, but have also urged the Centre to address the core political concerns of the region, including full statehood and constitutional safeguards.
“While an inquiry is necessary, the solution lies in dialogue and empowerment, not just investigation,” said Sonam Wangchuk, prominent Ladakh activist.
🌄 Ladakh’s Growing Discontent
Since its separation from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 and its reconstitution as a Union Territory, Ladakh has seen repeated protests demanding:
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Statehood with legislative powers,
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Inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, and
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Protection of land and job rights for locals.
The September violence has intensified calls for the Centre to initiate structured talks with local stakeholders.
🔍 What Happens Next
The MHA’s Judicial Commission will begin its hearings next week in Leh and Kargil, after which it will compile its findings and recommendations. Based on the report, the government may consider administrative reforms, disciplinary action, or policy changes for the region.
FAQs:
1. Why did the violence occur in Ladakh in September 2025?
It reportedly began over land and administrative disputes during a protest demanding statehood and autonomy.
2. Who will lead the judicial inquiry?
The commission is headed by Justice (Retd.) Anil Kaul, former Delhi High Court judge.
3. What is the time frame for the investigation?
The commission has three months to complete its probe and submit findings by January 2026.
4. What is the MHA’s role in the probe?
The MHA has set up and will oversee the commission’s work, ensuring accountability and transparency.
5. Will the report be made public?
Officials have not confirmed yet, but sources indicate that a summary report may be shared publicly after review.
