Ludhiana: A violent clash broke out at the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, Canada, over control of the management committee. The confrontation reportedly began when a group linked to Khalistani supporters attempted to assert control over the elders’ committee, leading to pushing, shouting, and physical altercations. Police later arrived at the scene to restore order.

Tensions Escalate During Committee Meeting

The incident is said to have taken place on March 30, when a meeting of the Elders’ Committee was underway inside the gurdwara. During the gathering, a group allegedly tried to take control by putting up banners. Members of the congregation objected, which quickly escalated the situation.

What began as a verbal dispute soon turned into pushing and shoving, eventually leading to a physical scuffle. Police intervened and managed to separate both sides, bringing the situation under control.

Background: Ongoing Disputes and Rising Tensions

This gurdwara is believed to have links to Khalistan supporter Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot dead in its parking lot in 2023. Since his killing, tensions over control of the gurdwara management have continued to simmer.

Disputes over the administration of the gurdwara have occurred in the past as well. Following Nijjar’s death, pro-Khalistan activities reportedly increased, leading to growing opposition among sections of the Sikh community in Surrey.

What the Viral Video Shows

An 88-second video of the incident has been widely circulated on social media. The footage, reportedly from inside the gurdwara hall, captures the tense atmosphere and the eventual outbreak of violence.

A large crowd can be seen gathered, with some seated and others standing. As tensions rise, members of the elders’ group are heard questioning the opposing side, saying, “This is our gurdwara, who are you?”

When banners were put up during the meeting, elders objected strongly, insisting they would not allow a takeover. The situation quickly deteriorated into chaos, with shouting, pushing, and physical confrontation.

Some individuals are seen engaging in fights, while others attempt to intervene. Voices in the video reflect deep divisions, with one side accusing the other of forcefully कब्जing the gurdwara, while the opposing group questions their authority and presence.

Allegations and Counter-Allegations from Both Sides

Members of the Elders’ Committee claim that pro-Khalistan groups have been occupying the gurdwara for several years and are now attempting to remove the existing leadership. They describe the incident as a planned takeover.

On the other hand, some supporters associated with the gurdwara have alleged that the violence was staged. They claim that outsiders were brought in to incite unrest, describing it as an act of foreign interference targeting Sikh institutions.

Both sides have strongly defended their positions, each accusing the other of provoking the conflict.

Police Intervention and Aftermath

Towards the end of the video, police officers can be seen entering the premises and stepping in to control the situation. Members from both sides approach the police with their respective complaints, accusing each other of instigating the violence.

The situation was eventually brought under control following police intervention, but tensions remain high. The viral video continues to circulate widely on social media, with supporters from both sides using it to back their claims and narratives.