Curfew relaxed from 10 am to 6 pm in Leh, markets open

Leh, Oct 03: Signs of normalcy returned to Leh on Friday as authorities continued with curfew relaxations, allowing shops and markets to open between 10 AM and 6 PM. After days of restrictions and shutdowns, residents stepped out to carry out their daily activities, though the atmosphere in the city remained cautious.

Markets in Leh, which had largely remained shut since the September 24 violence, saw reopening with shopkeepers lifting shutters and customers making essential purchases. Locals said the easing of restrictions brought relief to families and businesses who had been struggling with limited supplies.

Authorities said the decision to extend relaxations was taken after assessing the law and order situation, which has remained under control since September 24 violence. Security forces, however, continue to be deployed across sensitive locations to prevent any untoward incident.

The gradual return to routine comes nearly ten days after police firing during protests left four civilians dead, sparking anger across Ladakh and leading to curfew and internet suspension in Leh city. While restrictions on movement have been eased, mobile internet services remain blocked.

Officials said relaxations will continue if the peace holds, though public gatherings remain restricted. [KNT]