Maharashtra: Rampage at Gurudwara; 18 Sikhs Detained for Violating Restrictions on Public for Holi Celebrations

Maharashtra: A sword-wielded rabble of Sikh protestors broke through the barricades at a Gurudwara in Nanded, Maharashtra last evening. The attack came after policemen restricted a religious procession owing to the surge in the state.  It injured 4 policemen.

A case has been registered over the violence and the violation of the state’s Covid safety rules, the police said. Nearly 18 people have been detained. A video that took over the social media featured a large group of ferocious Sikh men armed with swords rushing out towards the police breaking the barricades and attacking them. 

Superintendent of Police Pramod Kumar Shewale said the gurdwara had been informed that the “Hola Mohalla” procession would not be allowed because of virus restrictions. He said,” We had spoken to the gurdwara authorities and the priests and explained the situation to them. So they agreed that this year, no procession will be held and a low-key celebration will be held within the complex.”

Despite the ban on Holi celebrations, fumes of celebrations aired and so the policemen sealed the gates of gurudwara. However, the turmoil began when the Nishan Sahib, or the Sikh religious flag, was brought to a Gurdwara gate and participants in the event started arguing. A large group then stormed out of the gate. CM Uddhav Thackery had announced a lockdown on Sunday and restricted public celebrations of Holi amid the surge. Strict action against those who violate the protocols have been ordered.