Clash Between Devotee Groups Leaves Several Injured, Property Dispute Exposed

Shimla: The violent clash erupted in the heart of the city between two groups of devotees—one representing the Ramakrishnan Mission and the other Brahmo Samaj —over a disputed place of worship.

The altercation left several injured, including police personnel, and brought to light a longstanding property dispute between the two religious groups.

Brahmo Samaj leader claimed that the premises rightfully belonged to their organization and accused the Ramakrishnan Mission of illegally occupying the site. In contrast, Ramakrishnan Mission devotees asserted that the property was handed over to them by Brahma's March in 2016, and they had been conducting prayer meetings there ever since.

Tensions escalated when Brahmo Samaj devotees arrived at the site late at night and offered prayers. When asked to leave by Ramakrishnan Mission members, they allegedly refused, leading to a physical altercation. The situation spiraled out of control as both sides clashed, prompting police intervention.

The police team, led by SP Shimla Sanjeev Gandhi faced resistance from the warring factions, resulting in injuries to several policemen and devotees. Authorities have registered two separate FIRs in connection with the violence, and an investigation is underway.

The dispute over the property has been ongoing for over a year, with the case still pending in the High Court. The incident has brought renewed attention to the unresolved ownership issue, raising concerns over law and order in the area.