Garhwal Post Bureau
GOPESHWAR, 27 Jun: The District and Sessions Judge Bindhyachal Singh at Gopeshwar District Court on Saturday granted bail to the four Nihangs lodged in jail in connection with the Karnprayag assault case. The court’s order has provided relief to the accused, but it has been made clear that the trial will continue and further proceedings will follow the due course of law.
It may be recalled that it was on June 16, a dispute between Nihangs and local residents in Karnprayag had escalated into violence between them. The Nihangs were accused by the locals of assaulting them with swords and dandas. Based on the complaints of the inured locals, the police registered a case against the Nihangs on charges of attempted murder. The incident also triggered widespread reactions across the country, with controversial posts circulating on social media.
Amid the tense atmosphere, the Uttarakhand administration had held a crucial meeting with representatives of the Nihang Sikh community on Friday in a cordial and constructive environment. Both sides agreed to maintain peace and resolve issues through dialogue. The Nihang representatives placed four demands before the administration, including withdrawal of the case and permission to meet fellow Nihangs. The administration sought two days time to consider the demands and assured appropriate action, following which the situation eased.
The Nihangs agreed to remain at Paonta Sahib for two days. Their representatives stated that both the parties were at fault in the Karnprayag incident and emphasised that the matter should be resolved through mutual understanding. They clarified that they did not wish to disturb law and order but had come with a message of brotherhood and harmony. They also insisted that they would not return until the release of the four Nihangs was secured.
