The Leh Apex Body (LAB), the largest political and religious organization in Ladakh, has formally demanded a comprehensive judicial investigation into the September 24 firing incident where security forces allegedly opened fire on protesters, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries.
Key Demands Before Probe Commission
In a significant development, LAB submitted a detailed representation to the inquiry commission headed by retired Supreme Court judge BS Chauhan. The submission came just one day after the panel extended its deadline for evidence submissions to December 8.
The organization has specifically demanded medico-legal case (MLC) reports for all civilians injured during the protests that were organized to demand Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh. LAB emphasized that post-mortem reports of deceased civilians should be given the highest priority in the ongoing investigation.
Evidence Preservation and Scrutiny
LAB has called for immediate collection, preservation, and thorough analysis of all CCTV footage recorded by Ladakh Police between 10:00 am and 6:30 pm on September 24. The organization particularly stressed the importance of retrieving footage from a 360-degree CCTV camera installed near NDS Memorial Park, close to the site where the violence occurred.
Convenor Gelek Phunchok and coordinator Tsering Stanzin, who submitted the representation on behalf of LAB, expressed serious concerns about potential evidence tampering. They highlighted the need for complete transparency in the investigation process.
Questions Over Police Injuries Timeline
The organization raised skepticism about approximately 20 police personnel being brought to SNM Hospital several days after the September 24 incident, claiming injuries sustained during the protests. LAB has demanded that the timing, intention, and motive behind these delayed medical examinations be thoroughly investigated to rule out any potential fabrication or exaggeration of counter-claims.
Additionally, LAB has insisted on complete and accurate documentation of all ammunition used by police and CRPF personnel during the incident, including bullets, pellets, and tear-gas shells. They want these official records made public before the inquiry commission.
Broader Context and Implications
The violence on September 24 resulted in four civilian deaths and injuries to over 80 people. Among those arrested in connection with the protests is LAB member and prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who faces charges under the stringent National Security Act (NSA).
LAB has categorically stated that their demands represent integral and non-negotiable components of a fair and credible inquiry. They warned that any omission or oversight in addressing these matters would seriously undermine public faith in the judicial system.
The Union Home Ministry (MHA) had announced the formation of the commission following persistent demands from both LAB and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), another key Ladakh organization. Both groups had made the establishment of this probe panel a precondition for resuming dialogue with the Central government regarding autonomy concerns.
