Nihangs’ Gurdwara standoff in Uttarakhand enters fourth day amid rising Sikh anger
Rudraprayag : The armed standoff at Gurdwara Langar Damdama Sahib in Nagrasu, Uttarakhand, entered its fourth day on Tuesday as a group of Nihangs continued to occupy the upper floors and rooftop, refusing to vacate despite intense negotiations by the administration.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Nihangs are demanding the immediate release of four of their companions arrested on June 16 following a clash with locals in Karnaprayag over a parking dispute. The arrested Nihangs, who hail from Mohali in Punjab, were returning from Hemkund Sahib when the incident occurred.
The situation remains tense. Seven Nihangs entered the gurdwara on June 20. While three reportedly came down in the last 24 hours, four are still holding the upper levels. Gurdwara management has accused the group of vandalizing property, assaulting volunteers, and throwing stones at police. However, the Nihangs claim they are protesting against “one-sided action” and injustice by the authorities.
Local police remain deployed around the shrine located on the Badrinath highway.
Claims of heavy deployment of Indian Army and paramilitary forces (ITBP and CAPFs) have been officially denied, with authorities stating that central forces are present only for Chardham Yatra duties.
Section 163 of BNS continues to remain in force in the area till June 27. Internet services, which were briefly suspended, have been restored. District Magistrate Vishal Mishra described the situation as “tense but under control” and appealed to people to avoid spreading rumours.
The prolonged standoff has once again highlighted the growing sense of alienation and frustration among sections of the Sikh community in India. Analysts note that such incidents reflect deep-rooted grievances and a feeling of injustice prevailing among Sikhs, who have long accused the Indian state of suppressing their religious and political rights.
The episode comes amid increasing concerns over the marginalization of minorities and the rising influence of majoritarian politics, which many believe is pushing even traditionally peaceful communities towards confrontation.
Talks with the Nihangs are still ongoing to secure a peaceful resolution.
