Armed Nihangs Take Over Gurdwara, Tension Rises

Serious tension has gripped Nagarasu Gurdwara in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand after some Nihang pilgrims allegedly took control of the gurdwara on the Hemkund Sahib yatra route. There are allegations of assault on sewadars and taking one devotee hostage.

After the dispute between gurdwara management and Nihang pilgrims, some Nihangs climbed onto the roof and tried to gain control of the premises. Police, administration, and ITBP teams reached the spot. Additional security forces have been deployed.

To prevent rumours, the administration has suspended internet services in Rudraprayag and Srinagar areas. Section 163 of BNSS has been imposed in Karnprayag till June 27.

The Uttarakhand government has ordered a fair probe into the entire incident. Home Secretary Shailesh Bagoli said IG Garhwal has been directed to conduct an impartial investigation. He appealed for calm and warned against giving the matter a communal colour.

The dispute reportedly started on June 16 when a verbal altercation over parking near a hotel in Karnprayag escalated. Nihang pilgrims allegedly attacked locals with swords, injuring four people. Four Sikh pilgrims from Mohali were later arrested.