One dies, dozens injured in Sikh-Sauda clash

Sangrur, May 17 (UNI) A youth was killed and many others were injured in a clash between Sikh activists and Sacha Sauda followers in Sunam in this district tonight.

According to Punjab ADGP (Law and Order) Chandershekhar there were reports of clashes between the two groups from other parts of the state as well and the police was keeping a keen eye on the situation in Salabatpura, where a large number of Sikh activists had laid seige on the state headquarters of Sacha Sauda.

Hundreds of Sikh activists, while returning after a crucial meeting of Sikh clergy at Talwandi Sabo, which called for social boycott and ban on the Sacha Sauda, went on a rampage in many places including Maur Mandi, Mansa, Salabatpur and Sunam.

In Sunam, when the Sikh protesters attacked the Dera Sacha Sauda ''Nam Charcha Ghar'', its inhabitants resorted to firing from inside in which a youth was killed and four people were injured.

In the ensuing stampede, at least three dozen poeple suffered injuries. Most of the wounded have been rushed to the Civil hospital.

UNI