PIONEER NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Uttarakhand Police has banned the entry of sharp-edged traditional weapons such as swords, spears and kirpans during the Hemkund Sahib Yatra, following recent incidents involving violence and public disorder allegedly linked to some pilgrims. The new directive permits only blunt-edged symbolic religious weapons within State borders, as part of an effort to balance religious sentiments with public safety, the inspector general of police, Garhwal Range, Rajeev Swaroop said.
He told The Pioneer that the decision comes in the wake of multiple clashes reported in areas like Srinagar and Joshimath, where videos surfaced showing pilgrims brandishing swords during altercations with locals. He said that some of these scuffles turned violent and resulted in injuries, prompting the police to act decisively to prevent further disturbances during the annual pilgrimage. “I have instructed SSPs and SPs in respective districts to maintain strict vigilance at border entry points to prevent any violent incidents. The police have also observed that some anti-social elements enter Hemkund in disguise of pilgrims who cause nuisance and disturb law and order.
Considering this, the respective police teams have been instructed to increase vigilance before entry to Hemkund and take appropriate action against offenders,” he said. The IG stated that while the police respect the deep-rooted traditions and faith of the Sikh community, maintaining law and order is important too. He said that the police have also engaged with senior Sikh leaders and religious heads who have shown understanding of the concerns and agreed to cooperate in spreading awareness among devotees. “These measures aim to ensure that the Yatra continues peacefully, preserving both public safety and the sanctity of religious traditions,” Swaroop said.
