Dehradun on alert after Nihangs breach barricades at Kulhal Border; Know why

According to police, inputs were received through social media that Nihang groups from Punjab were planning to move towards Karnaprayag in large numbers. The mobilisation was linked to a previous clash in Karnaprayag on June 16, after which four Nihang Sikhs were arrested.

Post Published By: Sujata Biswal

Updated : 26 June 2026, 12:57 PM IST

Uproar by Nihangs in Dehradun (Img-X)

Dehradun: Tension gripped the Uttarakhand-Himachal border after a group of Nihang Sikhs allegedly breached police barricades at Kulhal while moving towards Karnaprayag and Hemkund Sahib.

A case has now been registered against unidentified persons at Vikasnagar Kotwali.

According to police, inputs were received through social media that Nihang groups from Punjab were planning to move towards Karnaprayag in large numbers. The mobilisation was linked to a previous clash in Karnaprayag on June 16, after which four Nihang Sikhs were arrested.

Following the alert, Civil Police, PAC and ITBP personnel were deployed at the Kulhal outpost barrier to maintain law and order and ensure smooth traffic movement.

Administration Tried To Negotiate

Officials said the group was requested to continue the Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib journey peacefully, in smaller batches and without weapons. However, the Nihangs allegedly insisted on travelling together and said they would not return until their arrested associates were granted bail and allowed to accompany them back.

Talks were also held near the new Ballupur-Doon-Paonta four-lane highway, where barricading had been put in place. The administration again appealed to them to avoid weapons and proceed in a manner that would not inconvenience other pilgrims.

Barricades Allegedly Broken

Police alleged that some members of the group brandished swords, spears, hatchets and other traditional weapons, breached the barricades and moved ahead in vehicles. Some vehicles parked near the barricading were also reportedly damaged during the incident.

Authorities said the act endangered public safety, obstructed police personnel from performing their duty and created fear among people in the area.

What Sparked The Tension?

The dispute began on June 16 in Karnaprayag, where a clash between Nihang Sikhs and locals left several people injured. Police arrested four Nihangs in that case. Later, a standoff also took place at Nagarasu Gurdwara in Rudraprayag district, which was resolved after mediation by local officials and a delegation from Punjab.

Senior police officials have appealed to people not to believe rumours and said efforts are being made to maintain peace through dialogue.