"We are happy as everything getting back to normal": Foreign tourists explore Leh as markets opens after curfew relaxation

Leh (Ladakh) [India], October 1 (ANI): Amid the relaxation of the curfew in Ladakh, foreign tourists on Wednesday explored markets in Leh, stating that they are relieved over the opening of shops as part of the relaxations permitted by the administration.
A tourist from the Netherlands, Phien, praised the beauty of Leh and said, "All the shops that have opened now are selling beautiful things. I would definitely recommend Leh as a place to come and visit because the people are very friendly, and the food is very good. The monasteries, the nature, everything is very beautiful," Phien told ANI.
Besides Phien, another foreign tourist also expressed happiness and said that the "situation here is returning to normal".
"We had no idea about anything that was happening. We arrived yesterday. Everything was closed. It was hard to get some food and even water. Now I am happy that everything is back to normal, and now we can fill our bellies with good stuff," the tourist told ANI.

Meanwhile, people flocked to the market in Leh, Ladakh, to buy groceries, clothes, and other essential items after the relaxation of the curfew.
The unrest is linked to protests demanding statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

Earlier on Monday, the Union Home Ministry announced that it "is open to discussions" with the Apex Body Leh (ABL) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) at any time, whether through the High Powered Committee or another appropriate 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.
However, Chairman of Leh Apex Body Thupstan Chhewang had said that they will not take part in talks with the Centre till "peace is restored in Ladakh". (ANI)