Latest update:20 January 2026 at 9:32 PM IST

A Haryana man filmed himself vandalizing a landmark at Fotula Top on the Leh-Srinagar Expressway, sparking outrage and calls for action from the BRO and Ladakh Traffic Police.

A Haryana man filmed himself vandalizing a landmark at Fotula Top on the Leh-Srinagar Expressway, sparking outrage and calls for action from the BRO and Ladakh Traffic Police. (Image: X)

What should have been a moment of quiet respect on one of India’s most striking mountain passes, instead sparked widespread outrage online, after a man was filmed vandalizing a landmark at Fotola Top, the highest point on the Leh-Srinagar highway.

Located at an elevation of 13,479 feet, Futula Top holds geographical and symbolic importance along the strategic route. In the now-viral video, a man, said to be from Haryana, is seen pasting a “Gujjar” sticker on a prominent rock at the site. He records the act himself, looking amused, before turning the camera toward his parked car, presenting the moment as an accomplishment rather than an act of destruction of public property.

The clip was later shared on These sentiments resonated with many users, who condemned the action as arrogant and disrespectful towards a sensitive and creative site.

Many users pointed out that landmarks like Fotula Top are not personal canvases or selfie props, but fragile public spaces that require care and restraint. One post urged the authorities to act, noting that the video clearly showed the man’s face and the car’s number plate, and called on the Border Roads Organization and Ladakh Traffic Police to take action against the vandalism.

Others have questioned the mentality behind this behavior, describing it as a reflection of poor civic sense and entitlement masquerading as pride. The incident has reignited debate about responsible tourism and the disrespect shown by some visitors at sites of environmental and cultural importance.

As tourism continues to grow in high-altitude areas like Ladakh, many users said this incident underscores the need for tougher enforcement, clearer penalties and increased public awareness to protect fragile monuments from avoidable damage.

Read more