Patiala tensed as Shiv Sainiks, Nihangs clash over Khalistan protest rally

Members of Shiv Sena and Nihangs came face to face outside the Kali Mata temple in Patiala (Punjab) on Friday (April 29) as the police fired in the air to dispel the crowds.

Earlier, Harish Singla of Shiv Sena had given a call for protest rally against pro-Khalistani elements. To counter the march, the Nihangs gathered at Dukh Niwaran Sahib gurdwara. Tension prevailed after rumour spread that some Sikh activists were attacked by Sena men, the police said.

As a precautionary measure, the gates of the Kali temple were locked and surrounded by police as Sikh protesters marched towards the temple premises.

A station house officer with the Patiala police sustained minor hand injury while trying to stop the Nihangs from entering the temple. Stone-pelting was reported between the Nihangs, who were outside the temple, and the Shiv Sena members inside the temple.

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As a precautionary measure, the Punjab police have deployed 10 companies of police force. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann called the incident “deeply unfortunate”. “Punjab’s peace and harmony are of utmost importance,” Mann tweeted.

The Patiala Deputy Commissioner has convened a peace meeting of representatives from both groups on Saturday.