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Key Points

People in Leh finally got a chance to shop after days of curfew restrictions. The government says it's ready to talk with local groups about Ladakh's future. Meanwhile, protest leaders are refusing negotiations until peace returns to the region. The situation remains tense after recent violence that left four people dead.

Key Points: Ladakh Residents Rush Markets During Leh Curfew Relaxation

  • Curfew enters sixth day following violent protests demanding statehood
  • Home Ministry offers dialogue with Ladakh groups through High Powered Committee
  • Protest leader Sonam Wangchuk arrested under National Security Act
  • Four people killed in September 24 violence during police retaliation
2 min read

Ladakh: People flock to markets as curfew in Leh relaxed for 3 hours

People in Leh flock to shops during 3-hour curfew break after week-long closure amid statehood protests and violence that claimed four lives.

"The markets were closed for a week. I am feeling happy that the shops were open today. - Local resident"

Leh, September 30

People flocked to the market in Leh, Ladakh, to purchase groceries, clothes and other essential items following a three-hour relaxation of the curfew here.

The curfew has entered its sixth consecutive day following the violence on September 24, amid protests demanding statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

Restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were imposed in Leh following the violent protests.

A local resident said, "The markets were closed for a week. I am feeling happy that the shops were open today."

Earlier on Monday, the Union Home Ministry said that it has always been open for dialogue on Ladakh matters with the Apex Body Leh (ABL) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) at any time and would "continue to welcome the discussion" through the High Powered Committee or any such platform.

"The Government has always been open for dialogues on Ladakh matters with the Apex Body Leh (ABL) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) at any time. We would continue to welcome the discussion with ABL and KDA through the HPC on Ladakh or any such platform," a Home Ministry release said.

The dialogue mechanism established with ABL and KDA through the High Powered Committee (HPC) on Ladakh has yielded good results till date in the form of increased reservations to the Scheduled Tribes of Ladakh, providing women's reservations in LAHDCs and protection to local languages, the release added.

However, Chairman of Leh Apex Body Thupstan Chhewang had said at a press conference that they will not take part in talks with the Centre till "peace is restored in Ladakh".

The violence on September 24 claimed four people amid police retaliation, after the protestors set an office of a political party on fire.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, leading the protests with a hunger strike, was apprehended under the National Security Act (NSA) after being accused of inciting the violence.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While I understand the need for security measures, six days of curfew seems excessive. The government should balance law and order with people's basic needs. Dialogue is the only way forward.
P
Priya S
The people of Ladakh have genuine concerns about protecting their land, culture, and identity. Sixth Schedule protection is crucial for them. Hope both sides can find common ground soon! ❤️
M
Michael C
Violence is never the answer. Both protestors and authorities need to show restraint. The NSA charges against Wangchuk seem harsh though - he's been peacefully advocating for Ladakh's rights for years.
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Nisha Z
As someone from the hills, I understand the importance of protecting local culture and resources. The government's offer for dialogue is good, but they need to address the core issues, not just make promises.
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Aditya G
Four lives lost is tragic. Whether it's protestors or security forces, everyone has families waiting for them. Hope peace returns to the beautiful valley of Ladakh soon. 🕊️

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