The administration of Leh district in Ladakh, India, has invoked Section 144, thereby prohibiting public gatherings, rallies, and marches. This action comes two days before a planned "Pashmina March" organized by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The march intended to highlight the critical issue of shrinking grazing lands in the Changthang region, which are vital for the sustenance of pashmina goats.
Citing "credible intelligence suggesting a potential breach of peace and public order," Leh District Magistrate Santosh Sukhdeva issued the order imposing restrictions. Section 144 prohibits the assembly of more than four individuals in public spaces and restricts the use of loudspeakers without prior authorization.
The order further stipulates that "no procession, rally, march, etc., shall be undertaken by any individual or group without prior approval" from the authorities. This effectively puts a halt to the planned Pashmina March.
