Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand: The three-day standoff at Damdama Sahib Gurudwara in Nagrasu has ended peacefully, bringing relief to the administration, local residents, pilgrims, and members of the Sikh community. The situation, which involved a group of Nihang Sikhs occupying the upper floors of the Gurudwara, was resolved following negotiations and the intervention of a delegation of Nihang representatives from Punjab.

The dispute is linked to an incident that reportedly took place on June 16 in Karnaprayag, Chamoli district, where a clash occurred between a group of Nihangs and local residents. Several individuals were injured, and four Nihang members were arrested by the police. Authorities stated that the arrests were made based on the findings of the investigation, while supporters of the arrested individuals alleged that action had been taken only against one side.

Following the incident, six to seven Nihangs gathered at Damdama Sahib Gurudwara in Nagrasu and moved to the upper floors of the building. They reportedly demanded the release of the arrested individuals and called for what they described as a fair investigation into the Karnaprayag incident.

Police, district administration officials, ITBP personnel, and other security agencies were deployed around the Gurudwara premises to maintain law and order and prevent any escalation of the situation. Authorities monitored developments closely while emphasizing dialogue and peaceful resolution.

Officials stated that reports emerged of stone-pelting and the display of traditional weapons such as swords and spears during the standoff. Gurudwara management also alleged that portions of the upper floors sustained damage during the occupation. These claims remain subject to further verification and investigation.

The presence of security forces in the area led to speculation regarding military deployment. However, officials clarified that security personnel were stationed in the region as a precautionary measure due to the strategic importance of the Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage routes. Authorities emphasized that no military operation was conducted inside the Gurudwara.

A breakthrough was achieved when a delegation of Nihang representatives from Punjab arrived in Nagrasu and initiated discussions with those occupying the building. Following several rounds of dialogue involving community leaders, Gurudwara management, and administrative officials, the remaining occupants agreed to come down peacefully.

By Tuesday evening, all individuals involved had vacated the upper floors, bringing the standoff to an end without the use of force.

Authorities stated that investigations related to the original Karnaprayag incident and subsequent developments remain ongoing. The four individuals arrested in connection with the June 16 clash remain subject to legal and judicial proceedings.

The administration has appealed to all parties to maintain peace, cooperate with the investigation process, and allow legal procedures to continue in accordance with the law.