Haridwar / Bahadarabad area – 11 July 2025 – A minor crash during the annual Kanwar Yatra escalated into violence when a car lightly brushed against a group of pilgrims near Haridwar’s Bahadarabad area. In retaliation, some Kanwariyas damaged the Haryana registered Maruti Brezza car and assaulted the driver, prompting police intervention.
Table of Contents
📍 Kanwariyas Damage Car – What Happened?
- While returning from Haridwar, a car lightly hit a Kanwariya, part of the Yatra procession.
- Videos show pilgrims repeatedly hitting the vehicle with sticks and rods; the windshield and body of the car sustained significant damage.
- The driver – identity not disclosed – was allegedly assaulted, though cannot be confirmed. The vehicle was vandalized before authorities arrived.
Video credit: Zee business.
🚨 Kanwariyas Damage Car – Official Response
- Haridwar Police confirmed registration of an FIR, investigating damage to the vehicle and the assault.
- In Modinagar, Ghaziabad, similar incidents occurred when a drunk Maruti Swift driven by Rajiv Sharma collided with Kanwariyas, injuring three. Pilgrims vandalised Sharma’s car and beat him. He was arrested and charged under Section 170 BNSS.
🔑 Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Haridwar (Bahadarabad) |
| Incident | Minor collision between car and Kanwariyas |
| Pilgrims’ reaction | Vandalism |
| Police action | FIR filed, investigation in progress |
🔍 Broader Context
- The Kanwar Yatra, held during the Shravana month, draws thousands of pilgrims carrying sacred Ganges water from Haridwar into neighboring regions.
- This year’s procession has seen heightened tensions, with traffic disruptions and restricted vehicle movements in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
- Altercations between motorists and pilgrims have happened before, underscoring the need for better traffic management and local law enforcement during the pilgrimage.
⚠️ Safety & Social Concerns
- While pilgrims expect respectful passage, retaliation through violence is unacceptable under any minor road incident.
- Similarly, drivers – especially those under influence – must drive cautiously and avoid Kanwar routes.
- Authorities should strengthen measures such as dedicated Kanwar lanes, increased policing, and improved signage to prevent such conflicts in future.
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