Punjab: clashes between Nihang Sikhs, Radha Soami followers over cattle grazing in Beas

Violent clashes broke out in Punjab's Beas on 4 September 2022, leaving at least 10 people and a police personnel injured. The clashes were between some Nihang Sikhs and followers of the Radha Soami Satsang Beas.

The violence broke out after some Nihang Sikhs allegedly tried to forcibly enter the Radha Soami Dera premises to graze their cattle. Police said stones and bricks were pelted by both sides and some people fired in the air. Police resorted to lathi-charge to bring the crowds under control. Subsequently, heavy police force was deployed around the Dera premises.

The Nihangs are a Sikh sect whose members are usually dressed in blue robes, and carry weapons like swords and spears. Members of the Nihang sect have been mired in multiple controversies in recent times, including an alleged lynching at Singhu farm protest site in October 2021. In May 2022, violent clashes broke out in Patiala between Nihang Sikhs and a Shiv Sena faction.

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