Authorities in Leh announced a four-hour relaxation of the ongoing curfew, allowing residents to engage in essential shopping from 10 am to 2 pm on Tuesday. This decision comes in the wake of severe clashes between protesters and law enforcement, which claimed four lives on September 24, including a retired Army personnel.
The earlier curfew relaxation, lasting two hours on Monday, took place after the last rites of the deceased were observed. A police spokesperson confirmed that officials would assess the situation before making further decisions on curfew extensions later in the day.
Additional District Magistrate Ghulam Mohammed has authorized the opening of groceries, essential services, hardware, and vegetable shops during this brief window. “Barring the violence last Wednesday, there was no untoward incident reported. Police and paramilitary forces are deployed in sensitive areas, ensuring strict vigilance to maintain law and order,” stated a police official.
Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has been actively chairing high-level security review meetings daily following the turmoil. He urged the public to prioritize peace, asserting it as “the cornerstone of development.” Gupta called upon all societal sections to stay united and avoid falling prey to the actions of anti-social elements.
“The administration stands firmly with the people and will guarantee their safety and dignity. We will address legitimate issues through dialogue,” Gupta emphasized during a recent meeting. He praised the local populace for their restraint amidst challenging circumstances and committed to enhancing the communication between the administration and the community.
The authorities have imposed a suspension of mobile internet services in Leh town, with prohibitory orders continuing to restrict gatherings of five or more people in other key areas of the Union Territory, including Kargil.
The curfew was enacted following violent protests spurred by a shutdown initiated by a faction of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), aimed at urging the Centre to resume discussions surrounding statehood and the Sixth Schedule extension to Ladakh.
Over 60 individuals, including two councilors and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, faced detention amid the protests. Wangchuk remains imprisoned under the National Security Act in a Rajasthan jail, raising concerns about civil liberties.
In response, the Ladakh BJP has called for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unrest to ensure accountability. They also demanded the immediate release of individuals detained for minor offenses, offering condolences to the families affected by the violence.
“Ladakh, renowned for its scenic beauty and the strength of its residents, calls on everyone to uphold peace and harmony. It is essential we do not take law and order into our own hands,” the BJP stated in a follow-up while promoting unity in healing.
The party’s appeal stems from an urgent need for community cooperation. “We seek collaboration from all citizens to maintain peace and back healing and reconciliation initiatives,” they added.
