AMRITSAR SAHIB (October 25, 2014)—Members of two different Nihang Dals were injured by gunfire in a clash as the groups were taking part in annual Bandi Chhor celebrations. The condition of one Bir Singh from Barnala is said to be critical, while others are being assessed.
Traditionally, different Nihang factions take part in martial arts and artillery displays to mark the festival of Bandhi Chhor. Nihangs also display horse back riding tricks during the celebrations. The celebration took place at Gurdwara Shaheed Ganj and are attended by various Nihang factions and Sikh Sangat from all over Punjab and worldwide.
The clash is said to have erupted over differences in leadership of the Shiromani Panth Dashmesh Tarna Dal (Ludhiana).
Police was already deployed at the scene when the shooting took place, they were swift to take action and bring the situation under control. As per Parmpal Singh, additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, at least a dozen were arrested on the spot and taken into police custody.
This is the second time members belonging to different organizations have taken part in violence. Earlier this year, a clash at Sri Akal Takht Sahib shamed the global Sikh community. Similar to the incident on June 6, the clash between members of Nihang dals has found coverage by major newspapers across India.
The incident taking place around the day of Bandi Chhor Divas is extremely shameful for the entire community. Giani Gurbachan Singh, appointed Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, will be issuing a statement on the violent act soon.