Ludhiana: A dispute over the venue for Chhath Puja celebrations triggered a tense confrontation between local residents and devotees in Ludhiana’s Guru Arjun Dev Nagar on Saturday afternoon. The argument reportedly escalated into a heated clash around noon, with allegations that a shot was fired during the incident.
Police have launched an investigation to establish whether any firing took place. CCTV footage from the area is being examined to identify those involved and reconstruct the sequence of events.
Dispute Over Permission For Chhath Puja Venue
The incident took place in the Bahadari Khet area of Dholewal, where Chhath Puja has reportedly been organised every year. According to local residents, however, the owner of the plot selected for this year’s celebrations had not granted permission for the event.
Despite the lack of approval, devotees arrived at the site to perform the rituals, leading to disagreements between the two sides. The dispute had reportedly been simmering for the past two days.
The situation worsened on Saturday when some people from outside the locality allegedly joined the confrontation, turning the disagreement into a major commotion.
Police Seize Two-Wheelers, Examine CCTV Footage
Police personnel from Dholewal police station, led by the station house officer, reached the spot after receiving information about the disturbance. Several people allegedly left their two-wheelers behind and fled when the police arrived.
Police took possession of some motorcycles and scooters found at the scene. Investigators are also checking CCTV footage from the locality to identify the people involved and verify the claims surrounding the incident.
The allegation of gunfire remains under investigation, and police have not yet confirmed whether a shot was actually fired. Security personnel have been deployed in the area as a precautionary measure.
