DSGMC delegation meets Uttarakhand DGP over assault on Nihang Sikhs during Hemkunt Sahib Yatra, probe transferred
Babushahi Bureau
Uttarakhand, June 22, 2026: A high-level delegation of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) met Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Deepam Seth on Monday to discuss the alleged assault on Nihang Sikhs during their pilgrimage to Sri Hemkunt Sahib and the subsequent police action against them.
The delegation, led by DSGMC General Secretary Jagdeep Singh Kahlon, held an extensive meeting with the Uttarakhand DGP and submitted a memorandum seeking a fair investigation and action against those responsible for the incident. Other members of the delegation included Harjeet Singh Pappa, Kanwaljeet Singh Jolly and Rajinder Singh Khiala.
According to DSGMC President Harmeet Singh Kalka and General Secretary Jagdeep Singh Kahlon, the incident occurred on June 16 at Karnaprayag in Chamoli district when four Nihang Sikh pilgrims were allegedly assaulted by local residents while travelling to Sri Hemkunt Sahib. The committee alleged that despite the Sikhs sustaining injuries, police registered a case against them and later produced them in court without their turbans.
Following the meeting, DSGMC leaders said the Uttarakhand DGP ordered the transfer of the investigation from the local Chamoli police to Haridwar Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Navneet Singh Bhullar. He will now oversee both cases related to the incident.
The committee also strongly objected to allegations that the Nihang Sikhs were mistreated at the police station and presented in court bareheaded. In response, the DGP reportedly assigned DIG Yashwant Singh to conduct a separate inquiry into the conduct of police personnel involved in the case and determine accountability.
DSGMC leaders said they requested a time-bound investigation and were assured that the inquiry would be completed within two to three weeks. The DGP also reportedly assured the delegation that strict action would be taken against any officials found guilty of misconduct.
The delegation further sought measures to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims travelling to Sri Hemkunt Sahib in the future. They requested the appointment of dedicated nodal officers and the establishment of helpline numbers for Sikh pilgrims. The DGP assured the committee that two nodal officers familiar with Gurmukhi would be designated to assist devotees during the pilgrimage season.
DSGMC also demanded the early release on bail of the arrested Nihang Sikhs and objected to the inclusion of Section 307 (attempt to murder) in the case, describing it as inappropriate. The committee said it would provide legal assistance and pursue the matter in court.
Kalka and Kahlon reiterated DSGMC's commitment to supporting members of the Sikh community in legal and humanitarian matters across India and abroad. They also expressed hope that the measures initiated by the Uttarakhand Police would help prevent similar incidents in the future.
The DSGMC thanked Uttarakhand DGP Deepam Seth for his prompt response and assurances regarding a fair and impartial investigation.