Leh/Kargil, Oct 17/ VOL News Desk/ The Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, has announced that the Government of India has approved a judicial inquiry into the unfortunate incident of September 24, to be conducted by former Supreme Court Judge Dr. Justice B.S. Chauhan.

Dr. Kotwal also appealed to the people of Ladakh not to participate in large gatherings or protests, particularly the one called by the Apex Body of Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), stressing that peace and stability must be maintained across the region.

Judicial Inquiry Ordered

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The Chief Secretary stated that the decision to initiate a judicial inquiry was taken in response to public demand for a transparent and independent investigation.
“The Government of India has approved the formation of a Judicial Commission under the chairmanship of former Supreme Court Judge Dr. Justice B.S. Chauhan. The Commission will be supported administratively by the UT Administration and will investigate every aspect of the incident to bring out the truth and ensure such events never recur,” Dr. Kotwal said.
Details of the Incident and Casualties

Providing details of the September 24 incident, Dr. Kotwal said that around 90 people were injured, of whom 72 sustained serious injuries.
“Doctors at the SNM Hospital worked tirelessly through the night, performing about 11 complex surgeries, saving several precious lives. At present, only a few patients remain admitted, most with bone fractures. Doctors have informed that four of them will recover within two weeks, while one case might take longer,” he added.

Arrests and Legal Process

Dr. Kotwal informed that law is taking its course, noting that most of the individuals arrested after the incident have already been released.
“Only about 23 individuals remain in judicial custody, which means they are under court jurisdiction, not administrative detention. Their release can only be ordered by the courts,” he clarified.

Appeal for Calm and Restraint

The Chief Secretary urged the people to avoid any form of mass gathering or protest at this sensitive juncture.
He emphasized that Ladakh’s economy, education, and public life are gradually returning to normal — internet services have been restored, schools and markets reopened, and tourism and trade are reviving.
“With upcoming recruitment exams and thousands of vacancies being processed, maintaining peace and normalcy is crucial. Large gatherings at this stage could endanger the fragile stability we have worked so hard to restore,” he cautioned.

Dialogue and Way Forward

Dr. Kotwal confirmed that dialogue with local leadership is ongoing. The next meeting of the High-Powered Committee (HPC) will be announced soon to discuss constitutional safeguards and other pending demands.
He noted that a committee comprising prominent local leaders has been formed to facilitate constructive engagement with the Government of India.

Appeal for Peace and Unity

Praising the peace-loving and patriotic nature of Ladakh’s people, Dr. Kotwal said,

“It is through the collective efforts of our community that normalcy has been restored. I appeal to everyone to cooperate with the administration and refrain from any action that could disrupt peace. Together, we can ensure Ladakh’s continued progress and stability.”