Leh — Authorities in Leh on Tuesday announced a four-hour relaxation in curfew, bringing temporary relief to traders, business owners, and residents after days of restrictions imposed in the wake of violent clashes that shook the town.
The relaxation, which came into effect in the morning, allowed shops and essential services to open and gave citizens a chance to step out for basic needs. Officials confirmed that restrictions would be re-imposed after the designated hours to ensure law and order is maintained.
Curfew was clamped under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) following violent unrest that left four people dead and dozens injured last week. Protesters had taken to the streets in large numbers, and the situation escalated when the local office of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was set ablaze by agitators.
Security forces remain heavily deployed across Leh, with sensitive areas under continuous surveillance. Senior district officials said the situation is “under close watch” and appealed to the public to maintain calm. “The relaxation is meant to ease the hardships of ordinary citizens, not to allow any misuse. Any violation of peace will invite strict action,” an official told reporters.
Meanwhile, civil society groups and religious leaders have urged restraint and dialogue, warning against any further escalation of tensions. The district administration is expected to review the situation later in the evening before deciding on further curfew relaxations.
