Leh: Colleges across Leh district reopened on Wednesday after being closed for two weeks following the September 24 violence, officials said.
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta chaired a high-level security review meeting and directed the lifting of remaining restrictions to restore complete normalcy in the Union Territory, they added.
Educational institutions resumed classes on Wednesday morning, marking the first time they reopened since September 24, when Leh witnessed widespread violence during protests led by the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance. The agitators have been demanding statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
The violence claimed four lives and left several others injured. Authorities had earlier reopened schools up to Class 8 on October 3, followed by Classes 9 to 12 as the situation gradually improved.
However, mobile internet services remain suspended and are expected to be restored in the coming days, officials said. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) Act, which restrict gatherings of five or more people, are likely to stay in place for now.
During the review meeting, officials briefed the LG on the latest situation, including the phased reopening of schools, colleges, markets, and other public institutions across the region.
Expressing satisfaction over the steady return of normalcy, Gupta commended the people of Ladakh for their resilience and cooperation in maintaining peace.
“The reopening of educational institutions and markets reflects the people’s trust in the administration’s efforts to restore normalcy,” Gupta said.
He directed officials to gradually lift the remaining curbs in a coordinated and phased manner, ensuring public safety while allowing the smooth resumption of daily and economic activities.
The LG urged residents, especially the youth, to continue showing restraint and not be influenced by elements attempting to disturb peace.
“The progress of Ladakh depends on peace and stability. Every citizen has a responsibility to uphold unity and mutual respect,” he said.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to public welfare, Gupta said all necessary measures are being taken to address grievances, strengthen local governance, and accelerate ongoing development projects.
He reiterated that the administration aims to make Ladakh a model of peace, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
