Authorities in Leh have announced a four-hour relaxation of the ongoing curfew, effective Tuesday from 10 am to 2 pm. This decision aims to ease restrictions for shopkeepers and residents following a week of unrest.
The relaxation follows a brief two-hour window on Monday, after the last rites of four individuals, including a retired Army personnel, killed during clashes on September 24. Local officials stated that the situation would determine any further extension of the relaxation.
Ghulam Mohammed, Additional District Magistrate of Leh, ordered all essential services, groceries, hardware, and vegetable shops to operate during this period. “The authorities want to provide necessary supplies to the residents while maintaining order,” he said.
A police official reported no further incidents since the violence last Wednesday. The police and paramilitary forces maintain a strong presence in sensitive areas, ensuring law and order is upheld.
Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has been proactive in addressing security concerns, convening high-level meetings daily. On Monday, he urged the public to uphold peace, stating, “Peace is the cornerstone of development.”
Gupta appealed to all community members to foster unity and not succumb to the provocation of anti-social elements. He assured citizens of the administration’s commitment to their safety and dignity.
The Lieutenant Governor acknowledged the people’s remarkable restraint during the turmoil, promising to resolve legitimate grievances through dialogue and democratic channels.
Gupta has issued directives for enhanced intelligence gathering and community engagement to build trust between the administration and citizens.
Despite the curfew relaxation, mobile internet services remain suspended in Leh, and prohibitory orders against public gatherings of more than five individuals persist across other major regions, including Kargil.
The curfew was instituted after violent protests erupted on September 24, triggered by a shutdown from a faction of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) seeking dialogue with the Centre regarding demands for statehood and the applicability of the Sixth Schedule in Ladakh.
In the aftermath, over 60 individuals, including two councilors, faced police detention. Among those detained was climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, held under the National Security Act on September 26 and later transferred to Jodhpur Jail in Rajasthan.
The Ladakh BJP has called for a thorough investigation into these events to ensure accountability and justice. “We also demand the immediate release of all innocent individuals charged with minor offences,” they stated while expressing condolences to the grieving families.
In their message, the BJP emphasized Ladakh’s beauty and the resilience of its people. “We urge everyone to promote peace and harmony and avoid taking the law into their own hands,” they articulated. “It is crucial to work collectively to ensure peace prevails.”
The party’s appeal for unity extends to all citizens, calling for cooperation in maintaining peace and contributing positively towards healing and reconciliation.
