Yash Khajuria
Leh, Sept 06: A complete and peaceful bandh was observed in Leh town and other parts of the district in response to the call given by Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) against the alleged forcible conversion of a Buddhist woman.
The bandh call was supported by Ladakh Gonpa Association (LGA), Merchants Association Leh, transporters and other religious and political groups of Ladakh. On the occasion, a massive rally was taken out from Main Market Leh which culminated at historic Polo Ground. A large number of people, under the banner of LBA and LGA, joined the rally and raised slogans against “Love Jihad” and demanded strict enforcement of Anti-Conversion Law in Ladakh.
At Polo Ground, the leaders of LBA and LGA addressed the gathering and raised concern against the alleged attempts being made by some elements to convert the religion of Buddhist women. To ensure peaceful rally, the police administration had deployed adequate number of personnel at all the key places.
While addressing the gathering, President LBA, Thupstan Chhewang expressed strong resentment against the attempts of converting religion of Buddhist women. He cautioned the members of Buddhist community against such elements, which are propagating “Love Jihad” with ulterior motive and hell bent to disturb the cordial and peaceful atmosphere of Ladakh through such acts.
He demanded strict enforcement of Anti-Conversion law in Ladakh to prevent the attempts of conversion and police against the accused people. Several other leaders also addressed the gathering and raised their concern over the matter. They also urged the administration to take measures to stop all this.
As per report, the impact of bandh was also visible in all the sub-divisions of Leh district. All the business establishments remained closed in solidarity with the call of LBA. However, all the schools and government offices remained open.
