Tragedy Unfolds: Nihang sikh fatally shoots policeman in violent gurdwara ownership dispute

A violent clash unfolded at a gurdwara in Kapurthala, Punjab, where a policeman lost his life and three others were injured as Nihang Sikhs allegedly opened fire during a dispute over the gurdwara’s ownership. Ten individuals from the Nihang sect have been arrested for encroaching on the gurdwara, but tensions persist. The firing incident occurred when police attempted to clear the premises, with Nihangs firing upon them while they stood on the road.

The situation prompted police to use tear gas shells for control. Senior officials have rushed to the scene, and a significant police presence has been deployed. Approximately 30 Nihangs remain inside the gurdwara. The dispute stems from factions within the Nihang community, specifically followers of Baba Mann Singh attempting to capture the gurdwara and allegedly assaulting members of the opposing faction led by Sant Balbir Singh of Baba Budha Dal.

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In the ensuing clash, the Baba Mann Singh-led group occupied the gurdwara, tying one individual with a rope and attacking another, seizing his belongings. Subsequently, an FIR was filed, leading to the arrest of 10 Nihangs affiliated with the Baba Mann Singh faction. The firing incident occurred after these arrests.

Nihangs, recognized as Sikh warriors, trace their origins to the Khalsa’s creation by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. Identified by their distinctive blue robes and adorned turbans, they are often armed with weapons such as swords and spears. This incident echoes a violent episode in 2020 when Nihang protesters severed a police officer’s hand in Patiala during attempts to enforce a Covid lockdown. The ongoing situation underscores the complex dynamics within Sikh sects and their occasional confrontations over religious sites.