On June 18, 2023, Ladakh was shaken by a distressing incident involving a retired Chokidar turned Onpo, Tsering Wangdus, who allegedly assaulted a 21-year-old woman seeking treatment. While such incidents are rare in Ladakh, it is essential for the public to approach these cases with caution and avoid exacerbating any potential social imbalances. The gravity of rape and sexual harassment as criminal acts is undeniable, and it is crucial to address them solely as crimes. It is worth noting that none of the major religions in the world endorse or tolerate crimes like rape.

The recent case of sexual harassment in Waka village, Kargil, has sent shockwaves throughout Ladakh. Expressing opinions during such sensitive situations is challenging, but it becomes necessary considering the lasting impact of recent events. Although my viewpoint may differ from others’, I have valid reasons to support my stance.

Drawing from a Previous Incident:

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Recalling a similar incident that occurred in Leh on March 29, where the victim belonged to the Buddhist community and the accused was a Muslim, religious institutions associated with the victim took to the media and the streets to protest against the crime. Other religions represented by the accused also joined in condemning the act and demanding justice. The Ladakh Police promptly held a press conference to disclose their progress in the case.

The MP Ladakh in a meeting with LG Brig (Dr) BD Mishra requested for appropriate steps to make Ladakh a crime-free and drug-free society; highlighted the rape and attempt-to-murder of a young girl in Leh and appealed to ensure strict action as per law. Then, a delegation of All Religious Women Association of Leh, Ladakh called on the LG and requested to ensure that the criminal involved in the heinous act against a 12-year-old child in Leh be strictly punished as per law and for the case be put on speedy trial. The LG in a meeting attended by the Advisor Ladakh and Secretaries, directed the Police Department to ensure due diligence in every step and that no scope of any leniency remains.

Disparity in Response:

In contrast, the recent crime in Wakha saw religious institutions affiliated with the victim organizing protests and strikes one week after the incident. Allegedly, the Ladakh Police delayed holding a press conference, prompting the announcement of a general strike. Eventually, the police called a press conference after the strike was announced.

Moreover, unlike the previous incident, there has been no public statement from the organizations associated with the accused, the LG Ladakh, or the public representatives, even ten days after the Wakha incident on June 18.

Preserving Communal Harmony:

While acknowledging the seriousness of the crime, it is crucial to consider the implications of religious institutions involving themselves in individual crimes where only two individuals are involved. Such actions have the potential to disrupt the longstanding communal harmony in Ladakh. It is not my intention to downplay the severity of the crime, but the selective sympathy of religious organizations towards victims of their own faith only serves to widen the divide between people of different religions.

The Way Forward:

Ideally, the investigation and punishment of such crimes should be entrusted to the police and law enforcement agencies, ensuring their impartiality and adherence to due process. Religious organizations and civil societies should exhibit political maturity when making decisions on such sensitive issues, safeguarding Ladakh’s communal harmony and peaceful coexistence. It is crucial to recognize that some antisocial elements and political parties may seek to exploit these tensions for their own gains. Therefore, it is imperative for secular and moderate forces to act wisely and prevent any further divisions in the region.

To maintain communal harmony, Ladakh must respond to crimes like rape and sexual harassment with sensitivity and fairness. By entrusting investigations to the appropriate authorities, avoiding religious bias, and promoting dialogue among various communities, Ladakh can foster an environment of justice, understanding, and peaceful coexistence.