Nihang Group Occupies Uttarakhand Gurdwara Roof, Demands Release of Arrested Members
Rudraprayag (Uttarakhand): A group of Nihangs, a Sikh warrior order, has occupied the roof of a gurdwara in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district since Saturday, refusing to come down until four of their members arrested in connection with a recent clash are released, police said on Sunday.
The group allegedly entered the Nagrasu Gurdwara, vandalised property, and took the manager hostage before moving to the roof. Authorities have deployed a heavy police force, and the district magistrate and superintendent of police are present at the site to de-escalate the situation.
The Nihangs, carrying traditional weapons such as spears, swords, axes, and kirpans, are demanding the release of four Nihang devotees arrested after a clash in Karnaprayag market on June 16. According to police, the altercation began when Nihang pilgrims returning from Sri Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara argued with locals over parking near a hotel. The pilgrims allegedly attacked locals with swords, injuring four individuals, leading to the arrest of four Nihangs from Punjab's Mohali district.
Earlier, some Nihangs had approached the gurdwara management for support in a planned sit-in protest against what they called 'one-sided action' in the Karnaprayag incident. After not receiving expected support, they allegedly created a disturbance at the gurdwara.
The Uttarakhand government has ordered an inquiry into the Karnaprayag dispute. State home secretary Shailesh Bagauli directed the inspector general of police (Garhwal) to conduct a fair and transparent investigation, adding that action would be taken based on facts after hearing all parties. He also sought a status report from the additional director general of police (Law and Order).
Bagauli urged against giving a religious or communal colour to the matter, warning of action against those attempting to do so. He appealed to pilgrims, local residents, and stakeholders to maintain restraint and rely on legal mechanisms.
In view of a proposed demonstration in Karnaprayag on Sunday, the administration has imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) until June 27. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and attempt a peaceful resolution.
