Security Tightened Along Himachal Pradesh–Uttarakhand Border Following Karnaprayag Dispute
Police have tightened security along the Himachal Pradesh–Uttarakhand border after a dispute involving Nihang Sikhs in Karnaprayag. Authorities attempted to stop Nihang groups arriving at the border as a precautionary measure, following which a large number of Nihangs gathered at the site and raised slogans.
The dispute related to Karnaprayag and the Nagarasu Gurdwara in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district has taken a new turn after a group of Nihang Sikhs from Himachal Pradesh attempted to enter Uttarakhand. Police and the administration have maintained heightened security while officials from both states and Nihang representatives continue discussions to seek a resolution.
The administration has appealed to all parties to maintain peace and avoid rumours.
Following the announcement by Nihang Sikhs of their proposed march to Uttarakhand after the Karnaprayag dispute, security has been increased along the Himachal Pradesh–Uttarakhand border. Additional police personnel have been deployed at the Kulhal border in Vikasnagar and other sensitive locations.
Vehicles are undergoing thorough inspections, and security agencies are continuously monitoring the situation.
According to the administration, there were reports of barricades being broken and stone-pelting during demonstrations at some locations. Police subsequently strengthened the security perimeter and deployed additional personnel to bring the situation under control.
The dispute began on June 16 in the Karnaprayag area, when an altercation between Nihang Sikh devotees and some local residents escalated into a physical clash. Four local residents were injured in the incident.
Following an investigation, police arrested four Nihang Sikhs in connection with the case. A dispute later emerged regarding the Gurdwara at Nagarasu. According to the administration, the premises were vacated peacefully after mediation and discussions. Security across the area has since been strengthened to prevent any untoward incident.
Nihang representatives at the border said their objective was not to affect law and order. They stated that they intended to travel peacefully on a religious pilgrimage to Hemkund Sahib.
They also demanded that the four arrested Nihang Sikhs be released and sent to Punjab. The representatives said they would continue to maintain their demand until appropriate action was taken regarding their associates.
Uttarakhand Police stated that the incident should not be presented as a communal or religious dispute. According to police officials, the initial disagreement occurred between the management of the Gurdwara and some devotees.
Police said they reached the spot immediately after receiving information and brought the situation under control. According to officials, some devotees moved to the roof of the building after becoming apprehensive about the police presence. They were later brought down peacefully following multiple rounds of discussions.
