Leh violence probe panel warns against witness intimidation

The judicial inquiry commission probing the September 24 violence in Leh has cautioned that any form of victimisation, retaliation, or adverse action against witnesses or individuals connected to the case will attract strict legal consequences.

In October, the Centre met a key demand of protesting Ladakh groups by announcing a judicial inquiry headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice BS Chauhan into the clashes that left four people dead, including a Kargil war veteran.

In a public notice issued recently, the commission said that any person—whether acting in an official capacity as a government functionary or in a private role, or any organisation, including governmental, semi-governmental, or non-governmental bodies—who engages in “intimidation, coercion, threat, inducement, harassment, or any other form of interference” aimed at deterring individuals from appearing, deposing, submitting evidence, or participating freely in the proceedings, will face appropriate legal action.

The notice emphasised that any witness, complainant, or individual subjected to such behaviour has the right to file a formal complaint or grievance, either in the prescribed format or through a written representation, detailing the incident and identifying any officials involved, if known.

“Such complaints may be submitted directly to the Inquiry Commission,” it said.

Upon receiving a complaint, the commission stated it would take “immediate cognizance” and may initiate proceedings to protect the integrity of the inquiry. All complaints will be treated with the “utmost confidentiality,” prioritised, and handled expeditiously in accordance with the law.

The commission further noted that any act of “victimisation, retaliation, or adverse consequence” against a complainant or witness for lodging a complaint or for participating in the judicial inquiry would result in penal action.

The notice clarified that these measures are intended to “uphold the sanctity of the inquiry process” and ensure that individuals with knowledge or material related to the violence are able to assist the commission without fear, pressure or interference.

The September 24 clashes erupted between security forces and protesters demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, leaving four civilians dead and more than 100 injured.