LEH (KIMS) — Ahead of Sonam Wangchuk’s planned ‘Pashmina March’ inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi March, scheduled on April 7, the authorities have reduced mobile data services to 2G in Leh district of Ladakh Union Territory.
According to an order, “In response to security concerns in Ladakh, Dr. Shiv Darshan Singh-IPS, the Additional Director General of Police, has issued a directive to temporarily suspend mobile data services (3G, 4G, 5G & Public Wi-fi) within a 10 km radius of Leh city.”
“This decision follows intelligence reports indicating potential misuse by anti-social elements and miscreants to incite public unrest via social media platforms. With the aim of maintaining public peace and law & order, internet speeds will be reduced to 2G, the order reads.
“The suspension will be enforced from 1800 Hrs on 06-04-2024 to 1800 Hrs on 07.04.2024,” the order added.
Last month Sonam Wangchuk concluded his 21-day hunger strike and announced to carry out ‘Border March’ on April 7, as part of his campaign for Ladakh’s statehood.
Ending his hunger strike on March 22, Sonam Wangchuk advocated for Ladakh’s statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
Earlier, the administration in Leh district of Ladakh Union Territory imposed Section 144 on Friday aiming to restrict processions, rallies, and marches.
According to an order, the Senior Superintendent of Police, Leh, citing reliable information, expressed concerns regarding potential disruptions to peace and public order in the district. District Magistrate, Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve, IAS, upon review, invoked powers under Section 144 of CrPC, 1973, thereby restricting public gatherings and the use of vehicles mounted with loudspeakers without prior approval.
The order mandates that no procession, rally, or march may occur without written approval from the District Magistrate. It also prohibits any statement that could disrupt communal harmony or public tranquility, emphasizing adherence to the law and model code of conduct.
The violation of this order will result in punitive action under Section-188 of the Indian Penal Code.
In response to the administration’s decision, Sonam Wangchuk in a post on X said, “PEACEFUL LADAKH IS VERY CONFUSED! After 31 days of extremely peaceful prayers & fasts… Suddenly peace initiatives of the administration sounds more dangerous than anything ! PEACE AT ANY COST !!?.” — (KIMS)