Authorities in Leh relaxed curfew restrictions on Saturday for the first time since violence erupted three days ago, allowing residents a brief window to purchase essentials.
The curfew, imposed on Wednesday following clashes that left four people dead and nearly 90 injured, was lifted in phases for four hours.
Director General of Police, Ladakh, S D Singh Jamwal, said the relaxation was given in two slots — from 1 pm to 3 pm in the old city areas and from 3.30 pm to 5.30 pm in the newer parts of town.
He added that no untoward incidents were reported during the period.
Security was tightened across sensitive areas with police and paramilitary forces intensifying patrols and checks.
Shops dealing in essential commodities witnessed long queues, and residents were also seen rushing to ATMs.
The curfew was imposed after widespread violence broke out during a shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) to press for statehood and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule.
Officials said over 50 people have been detained so far, and raids are underway to track down others allegedly involved, including a councillor accused of instigating the unrest.
The violence was preceded by the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA).
Authorities allege that a series of provocative speeches by Wangchuk, with references to Nepal’s agitation and the Arab Spring, incited the protests.
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He has been described by police as the “main ring leader” behind the clashes.
Wangchuk has been shifted to Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan.
The administration justified his detention, saying it was essential to restore peace in Leh and prevent further disturbances.
Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta chaired a high-level security meeting at Raj Bhavan before the curfew was eased.
The administration said all arrangements have been made for the funerals of those who lost their lives in the violence, while restrictions on assembly remain in place across Ladakh, including in Kargil.
