 Muskan Thakur
Early Times Report
Jammu, Sept 23: In a move aimed at promoting peace, public tranquillity and social harmony in Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved the withdrawal of criminal cases against 20 individuals booked in connection with the violence that erupted in Leh on September 24, 2025.
The decision follows a comprehensive review of the cases, after which the Ladakh Police recommended filing a closure report in respect of the 20 individuals named in FIR No. 144/2025, registered at Police Station Leh. The action has been taken under Section 360 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which provides for withdrawal from prosecution subject to due legal procedure.
The September 24, 2025 violence had left four people dead and several others, including civilians and security personnel, injured, following a serious deterioration in the law-and-order situation in Leh. In t “The decision will allow the 20 individuals to move forward with their lives and careers. The move is intended to contribute to a more peaceful, united and harmonious society in Ladakh.”
Announcing the decision, the Lieutenant Governor said it would allow the 20 individuals to move forward with their lives and careers, while stressing the need to prioritise justice, healing and reconciliation over prolonged litigation. He said the move was intended to contribute to a more peaceful, united and harmonious society in Ladakh.
Saxena also expressed gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his continued guidance and sympathetic approach towards issues concerning the victims and their families.
The decision comes as part of ongoing efforts by the Ladakh Administration and the Centre to restore trust, maintain peace and facilitate dialogue in the region in the aftermath of last year’s violence. | 