nihangs-storm-gurdwara-in-rudraprayag-hold-manager-hostage

A group of Nihangs allegedly stormed a gurdwara in Rudraprayag district and held the shrine’s manager hostage on the roof on Saturday evening, demanding the release of four Nihang devotees arrested in connection with a clash in Chamoli on June 16, police said on Sunday.

 

According to police, the group, armed with spears, swords, axes and kirpans, entered the gurdwara premises and created a disturbance before taking the manager to the rooftop. The Nihangs then locked access to the third floor leading to the terrace and continued to remain stationed on the roof, raising slogans.

 

A heavy police force was deployed at the site following the standoff, while senior officials, including the Rudraprayag District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, reached the spot and attempted to persuade the group to come down and vacate the premises. However, the situation remained tense as negotiations continued.

 

Police said the Nihangs also indulged in vandalism inside the gurdwara before taking the manager hostage.

Also read: Four Nihang pilgrims held for attacking locals in Karnaprayag

The incident is linked to an earlier clash in Karnaprayag market in Chamoli district on June 16, which had broken out over a parking dispute near a hotel. A group of Nihang pilgrims, returning after offering prayers at Sri Hemkund Sahib gurdwara, had allegedly engaged in a heated altercation with locals, which escalated into violence. Four people were injured in the incident.

 

Following the clash, four Nihang pilgrims from Mohali district in Punjab were arrested by police.

 

The detained individuals are believed to be part of the group whose supporters later demanded their release, alleging “one-sided action” in the case. Some Nihangs had also reportedly sought support from the management of the Nagrasu gurdwara for a planned sit-in protest, but tensions escalated after their demands were not met.

 

The Uttarakhand government has ordered an inquiry into the Karnaprayag incident. State Home Secretary Shailesh Bagauli has directed the Inspector General of Police (Garhwal) to conduct a fair and transparent investigation, assuring that action will be taken based on facts after hearing all parties involved.

 

Security remains deployed at the gurdwara as efforts continue to resolve the standoff peacefully.