Authorities have announced a four-hour relaxation of the curfew in Leh beginning at 10 AM on Tuesday. This decision allows shopkeepers to open their establishments after violent clashes occurred in the town on September 24. The unrest led to the unfortunate deaths of four individuals, including a retired Army personnel.
The recent curfew relaxation follows a brief two-hour window allowed on Monday afternoon after the completion of last rites for the deceased. Police officials stated that further considerations regarding curfew restrictions will depend on the evolving situation.
Ghulam Mohammed, the Additional District Magistrate of Leh, ordered the opening of all grocery, hardware, and vegetable shops during the relaxation period. “Barring last Wednesday’s violence, no further incidents have been reported. Police and paramilitary forces are deployed extensively in sensitive areas to maintain law and order,” a police official confirmed.
Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has been actively overseeing security measures through daily high-level review meetings. He urged the community to maintain peace, emphasizing that unity is crucial for development.
“I ask all sections of society to remain united and avoid succumbing to the designs of anti-social and anti-national elements. The administration stands firm with the people and will ensure their safety, dignity, and progress,” Gupta stated.
Gupta acknowledged the community’s remarkable restraint during these turbulent times and promised to address legitimate concerns through dialogue and democratic processes.
In addition, Gupta has directed enhanced intelligence measures, engaging with the community, and resolving public grievances quickly to bolster trust between the administration and citizens.
While authorities have relaxed the curfew temporarily, crucial restrictions remain in place. Mobile internet services continue to be suspended in Leh town, and prohibitory orders banning gatherings of five or more people remain effective in other regions of the Union Territory, including Kargil.
The imposition of curfew stemmed from violent protests tied to a call for a shutdown by a group affiliated with the Leh Apex Body (LAB). This body advocates for discussions with the Centre regarding statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh.
In the aftermath of the protests, over 60 individuals, including two councilors, faced custody. Notably, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act on September 26, later moved to Jodhpur Jail in Rajasthan.
The Ladakh BJP has demanded a thorough investigation into these incidents to uphold accountability and justice. They called for the immediate release of all innocents charged with minor offenses while expressing condolences to the families of the deceased.
“Ladakh is renowned for its beauty and resilience. We urge the community to foster peace and stability. It is essential to avoid misinformation and maintain law and order,” the BJP stated, emphasizing unity and cooperation among residents.
As the situation continues to evolve, the administration urges all citizens to rally together and support reconciliation efforts, underscoring the importance of peace in the region.
