Protesting youth brought Ladakh's Leh to a standstill on Wednesday as they clashed with police and torched a security vehicle outside the BJP office, prompting security forces to fire teargas shells and resort to baton charge.

The massive protest and shutdown were held in support of the demand to advance the proposed talks with the BJP-led Union Government on the extension of the Sixth Schedule as well as statehood to Ladakh. The protests turned violent after a group of protesters pelted stones at the police.

Additional forces have been deployed to restore order, said officials.

"Whatever is happening in Leh is unfortunate. Ladakh, once peaceful, is now gripped by frustration & insecurity due to Govt’s failed UT experiment. The onus lies on the Govt—resume dialogue, act sensibly & fulfi

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