By Shishir Prashant 
PrashantNews
Four Nihangs arrested in connection with the June 16 clash at Karnaprayag in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district were granted bail by a local court in Chamoli on Friday, bringing a significant development in the high-profile case that had triggered protests and heightened security in the region.
The accused had been in judicial custody since their arrest following the violent altercation near a gurdwara in Karnaprayag. The incident led to the registration of criminal cases against the Nihangs on charges including rioting and assault. Their arrest had sparked strong reactions from Nihang groups in Punjab, with several members travelling towards Uttarakhand to demand their release.
According to sources, the bail order was passed after the court heard arguments from both the prosecution and the defence. While granting bail, the court directed the accused to comply with the conditions laid down in the order and cooperate with the ongoing investigation whenever required.
Following the court’s decision, the district administration is expected to complete the necessary legal formalities before allowing the four Nihangs to return to their home state of Punjab. Officials said the administration would ensure that the process is carried out peacefully and in accordance with the law.
The bail is expected to ease tensions that had prevailed in Uttarakhand over the past several days. The state government had stepped up security along the Uttarakhand-Himachal Pradesh border after groups of Nihang Sikhs attempted to enter the state demanding the release of the arrested men. After discussions with the administration, many of them had returned, while authorities continued to monitor the situation closely.
Officials maintained that the grant of bail does not affect the ongoing investigation into the Karnaprayag clash. The police will continue to probe the circumstances leading to the brawl, and further legal proceedings in the case will continue in accordance with the law.