Yesterday, Nihangs forcibly entered the Dera Radha Soami Satsang grounds to graze their cattle, setting off a clash between followers of the dera. A police case has been filed in connection with this clash today.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Swapan Sharma has confirmed it and said that the police were also involved in the matter. It is unclear whether details about the case have been disclosed by the police.
For the second straight day, tensions prevailed in Beas. There was a heavy police presence in the area.
Last night, the Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav visited the dera premises, while Adjutant General of Police (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla and other senior police officials remained in Beas today. In an effort to maintain peace, the police urged both parties.
As the situation has been stabilized, the DGP requested that the people do not believe rumours. Over a minor issue, a clash broke out. There is no longer a dispute. “We will take legal action,” he said.
Police are primarily concerned with maintaining law and order, according to the ADGP.
SSP Mohnish Chawla is investigating the case under his supervision, he said.
Twelve people were injured in the clash, including three police officers. Shots were fired in the air and stones and bricks were pelted from both sides. Bringing the situation under control required the use of force by the police.
According to Baba Gajjan Singh, the Tarna Dal is keeping a close eye on the situation.
Nihangs’ support was extended by Baba Balbir Singh Muchhal, a member of the Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Committee. He warned that action would be taken if the Nihangs (victims) didn’t receive justice.