Seven Nihang pilgrims have been arrested near Jyotirmath in Uttarakhand following a violent clash with a local businessman. The incident occurred on Monday and escalated when the Nihangs allegedly attacked a police officer who intervened.
The conflict reportedly began with an argument over moving a scooter. The Nihang Sikhs, who were visiting Hemkund Sahib, had a disagreement with the businessman, which quickly escalated. The Nihangs allegedly attempted to attack the businessman with swords, but he managed to escape unharmed.
Police arrived at the scene after receiving reports of the altercation. The Nihangs had already left for the police station by that time. Authorities stopped them near the police station gate. A large group of local businessmen also gathered at the police station, further intensifying the situation. The situation worsened when police discovered the Nihang pilgrims were carrying sharp weapons, including axes, large double-edged swords, and knives, in addition to the traditional kirpans they carry as part of their religious beliefs. This discovery led to a heated argument between the Nihangs and the locals.
As police tried to intervene and prevent further violence, one of the Nihangs, identified as Amritpal, allegedly attacked a senior sub-inspector on the head with a sharp knife, causing injuries.
Following the incident, two separate cases have been registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The charges include sections 109(1) (attempt to murder), 191(2) (rioting), 193(3) (liability of the owner, occupier, or any person with an interest in land where an unlawful assembly or riot takes place), 352 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace), and 351(3) (criminal intimidation). One case was filed based on the complaint lodged by the locals, and the other was filed on the complaint lodged by the injured police officer.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Harpreet Singh, Amritpal Singh, Harpreet Second, Binder Singh, Garja Singh, Harjot Singh, and Bhola Singh. All of the accused are residents of Fatehgarh in Punjab. The police have stated that a further investigation into the matter is currently underway.
