A tense situation at the Nagrasu Gurdwara in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district has started to cool down. The Nihang Sikhs, who had occupied the top floor of the shrine since Saturday, have released a Gurdwara volunteer they had reportedly held hostage. Despite this positive development, some Nihangs remain on the rooftop as the local administration continues talks to resolve the standoff.
The Core of the Dispute and Demands
The protest by the Nihang Sikhs stems from an earlier incident on June 16 in Karnaprayag, where a clash involving swords took place. The Nihangs occupying the top floor of the Nagrasu Gurdwara are demanding the immediate release of their associates arrested in connection with that sword-fighting case. Additionally, they are seeking police action and cases to be registered against the local traders and residents involved in the confrontation.
Allegations of Vandalism and Disruption
Detailing the ordeal, Baba Beant Singh of the Nagrasu Gurdwara management stated that the group arrived two days ago and initiated clashes, which included assaulting and abusing volunteers. Although they were provided shelter and food for the night, they restarted the fight the following morning. Upon spotting police outside, whom they feared had come to arrest them, the group rushed to the fifth floor. According to Baba Beant Singh, they broke walls, threw stones at the police, shopkeepers, and bystanders, and caused damage worth lakhs of rupees by vandalizing solar panels and cutting water lines. He added that the group has refused to eat Gurdwara food since yesterday, claiming they fear it might be poisoned.
Official Response and Administrative Measures
To prevent the spread of rumors and maintain order, the district administration temporarily suspended internet services in the area on Saturday evening. The suspension, which lasted for approximately 12 hours, was lifted on Sunday evening at around 5:20 PM. Rudraprayag District Magistrate Vishal Mishra and Superintendent of Police Niharika Tomar have clarified that despite the tense standoff, the Gurdwara itself has not been captured, nor is anyone currently held hostage.
DM Vishal Mishra emphasized that regular religious activities, including Ardas, prayers, and the community kitchen (Langar), are operating smoothly without any hindrance. Travelers and devotees are visiting and staying at the Gurdwara as usual. He urged the public not to pay heed to unfounded rumors of violence or ongoing hostage situations.
Political Intervention and Dialogue
The situation also drew political attention, with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann initiating contact with the Uttarakhand Chief Minister. Mann emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution that takes into account the perspectives of both sides. He also reached out to the Sikh community in Uttarakhand, assuring them that the Punjab government remains prepared to offer any necessary assistance. Meanwhile, local officials continue to hold active dialogues with the protesting Nihangs on the rooftop to find an amicable solution, especially after a statement from one of the Nihangs suggested they might return home soon.
