Historically known for its peaceful nature, Ladakh has now become the epicenter of violent unrest, which erupted this week. The protests stem from a combination of unmet political promises, environmental concerns,

Leh and Kargil now realise that Union Territory status has only eroded the limited powers they once exercised in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Protesters demanding statehood for Ladakh, a strategically important Himalayan region, clashed with the police.

By the 19th century, Ladakh became a target for the expanding Dogra dynasty of Jammu. In 1834, General Zorawar Singh, a commander under Raja Gulab Singh, invaded Ladakh. After fierce resistance, Ladakh was annexed to the Dogra-ruled Jammu kingdom,

The Himalayan region of Ladakh, already at the center of India-China border tensions, witnessed its bloodiest day on Wednesday when youth-led protests against the Modi government turned violent. At least four protesters were killed and dozens injured after clashes in Leh,