‘Situation Totally Peaceful’: Punjab DGP After Violence Reported In Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran

New Delhi: Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Monday (March 6, 2023) said that the situation in Himachal Pradesh's Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran is "totally peaceful" following reports that there was violence in the Kullu district. He also urged people to maintain peace and harmony. Locals and pilgrims from Punjab clashed during a fair in Manikaran town on Sunday and left some houses and vehicles damaged. A video that went viral purportedly showed stick-wielding pilgrims from Punjab pelting stones at the houses of local residents near the Gurudwara. The trigger for the clash was not immediately known.

A case of rioting has been registered and investigations are underway. The situation is under control and there has been no damage to the Gurudwara premises, Superintendent of Police, Kullu, Sakshi Verma told news agency PTI.

"The situation is totally peaceful in Manikaran Sahib and I urge people to maintain peace & harmony. I have spoken to Himachal Pradesh DGP and Punjab Police are working together to maintain Law & Order," Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said in a tweet.

"Request citizens not to panic or spread fake news or hate speech," he added.

"Pilgrims from all parts of the country are welcome to visit without any fear," the Punjab DGP stated.

The situation is totally peaceful in Manikaran Sahib and I urge people to maintain peace & harmony

I have spoken to DGP @himachalpolice & @PunjabPoliceInd are working together to maintain Law & Order

Request citizens not to panic or spread fake news or hate speech (1/2) — DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) March 6, 2023

In a tweet, Himachal Police also said that "All tourists and pilgrims are welcome to Himachal Pradesh and HP Police assures hassle-free visit to all the tourists and pilgrims".

"DGP Himachal Sanjay Kundu has spoken to Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav", it added and asked people not to fall prey to fake news and rumour mongering.

Assured that ends of justice will be met.

Also assured of hassle free movement of all tourists and pilgrims in H.P.#HPPolice — Himachal Pradesh Police (@himachalpolice) March 6, 2023