Leh Violence Probe Deadline Extended: Seeking Justice and Statehood

The Judicial Inquiry Commission probing the Leh violence extended the deadline for recording statements by 10 days. The Commission, led by Justice B S Chauhan, is investigating a September clash leading to four deaths. The extension follows a plea from the Leh Apex Body for more testimonial submissions.

The Judicial Inquiry Commission investigating the Leh violence incident has extended the deadline for recording statements and submitting evidence by 10 days. This extension came after a formal request made by the Leh Apex Body (LAB), which indicates the growing importance of this inquiry and the need for comprehensive coverage of witness accounts.

Headed by former Supreme Court judge B S Chauhan, the commission was constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs on October 17. The commission's task is to delve into the circumstances surrounding a law and order crisis in Leh on September 24, assess police actions taken during the unrest, and understand the events that led to four civilian deaths, including a Kargil war veteran.

The extension till December 8 will allow more individuals to present their statements, responding to the LAB's request citing unfinished submissions. The LAB, a conglomerate of various Ladakhi social, political, and religious entities, has long been agitating for statehood and constitutional protections under the Sixth Schedule.

(With inputs from agencies.)