With the situation gradually returning to normal, curfew was today relaxed in the violence-hit district for eight hours.

The curfew has been relaxed from 10 AM to 6 PM, District Magistrate Sandhya Tiwari said.

All government offices were functioning and a large crowd was seen in markets. A large number of commuters were also seen at the bus stands and railway station.

However, the district administration is yet to give permission to educational institutions to reopen.