Ladakh LG clears withdrawal of cases against 20 in September 24 violence

Srinagar: Ladakh LG VK Saxena approved Wednesday withdrawal of cases against 20 of the 81 people who faced criminal charges for “rioting and arson” after violent statehood protests in Leh last Sept 24 that left four people dead in police firing and wounded nearly 90.“The cases have been withdrawn under section 360 of BNSS on the recommendation of Ladakh police following a comprehensive review of the status of investigations into the cases,” a govt spokesperson said.Of 87 accused identified in rioting cases, 81 were arrested and criminal proceedings initiated against them. Following the review, police recommended withdrawal of charges against 20, the spokesperson said. LG’s office did not comment on the status of the remaining 61 accused.LG’s office called the move significant for peace, public tranquillity and social harmony in Ladakh.