Munish Sood
Mandi
In a significant move to uphold centuries-old tribal traditions and cultural practices, the Gram Sabha of Gram Panchayat Koksar in Lahaul-Spiti district has announced the complete closure of tourism activities and commercial establishments in Ward No. 4 and Ward No. 5 — comprising Dimpuk, Ramthang and Koksar villages — from January 14, 2026.
The decision has been taken in view of the forthcoming holy Halda festival, which begins after Makar Sankranti and holds immense religious and cultural significance for the indigenous communities of the region. As per the resolution passed by the village assembly (PESA Gram Sabha), entry of all non-residents and tourists into these wards will remain prohibited, and all markets and shops will stay closed till March 2026.
The Gram Sabha stated that the move is aimed at preserving local customs, traditions and community life during the sacred festival period. “We are committed to protecting our traditional values and cultural identity. Therefore, tourism activities will remain completely suspended in these areas during the Halda celebrations,” the village body said.
The decision has been taken under the provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), which empowers village assemblies in Scheduled Areas to protect and preserve the traditions, customs, cultural identity and community resources of indigenous people. Section 4(d) of the Act specifically authorises Gram Sabhas to safeguard cultural heritage and customary practices.
In this regard, the Gram Sabha has formally requested the district administration to implement the directives of the PESA Act and ensure strict enforcement of the closure. A request has been made to the Deputy Commissioner of Lahaul-Spiti, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Keylong, Superintendent of Police and Deputy Superintendent of Police to put in place necessary arrangements, including the installation of police barricades at Kuthbihal after January 14 to prevent unauthorised entry.
The village body has also urged all concerned departments — including Forest, Revenue, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Scheduled Tribe Welfare, Social Justice, and Industries and Mining — to extend full cooperation in implementing the decision.
Additionally, the Gram Sabha has sought clearance of snow on the National Highway stretch from Kuthbihal to Pagal Nallah, including the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel at Rohtang, as well as on key Public Works Department link roads connecting upper villages such as Tailing, Laling, Kharchod, Jamyaling-Yuramurti and Sarkhang. These villages fall under the Special Area Development Authority (SADA) wards of Gram Panchayat Koksar.
A copy of the resolution has also been forwarded to the local Member of Legislative Assembly to ensure coordinated implementation at all administrative levels.
The tribal leadership has reiterated that customs and traditions are of paramount importance in Scheduled Areas and must be respected by all stakeholders. The administration has been urged to strictly enforce the closure in the interest of cultural preservation and community harmony during the holy Halda festival period.
