Haridwar, India – The annual Kawad Yatra has once again made headlines, not just for its religious fervor but for shocking violence that erupted in Haridwar’s Roorkee and Bahadrabad areas. In a disturbing incident, a group of Kawad pilgrims brutally vandalized a car and assaulted its occupants—including women and children—after a minor collision near Peerpura village. The terrifying episode has sparked massive outrage and debate across India, with many questioning the law and order situation during the pilgrimage.

Kanwar Yatra: हरिद्वार-रुड़की में कांवड़ियों का बवाल, गाड़ियों में जमकर की  तोड़फोड़, तीन गिरफ्तार - Divya Times India

Family’s Nightmare: Car Smashed, Clothes Torn, Children Traumatized

According to eyewitnesses and the victim’s statement, the family was simply driving home when their car allegedly brushed against a Kawad being carried by devotees. What followed was chaos: the enraged group smashed the car’s windows, dragged out the driver, tore his clothes, and beat him mercilessly. Shockingly, all this happened while terrified women and children were trapped inside the vehicle, fearing for their lives.

Videos and photos from the scene show the car severely damaged, with police arriving just in time to prevent even greater tragedy. The situation was so tense that a large crowd gathered, and the family was only rescued after heavy police intervention.

Police Action: Arrests Made, More Incidents Reported

Police have registered cases against 7-8 unidentified Kawad pilgrims and have already arrested three suspects in connection with the Bahadrabad assault. These individuals have publicly apologized in a video released by the police, admitting their actions were wrong and asking for forgiveness.

But this is not an isolated case. Similar violent incidents have been reported across Uttar Pradesh, especially in Muzaffarnagar, where Kawad pilgrims have been accused of attacking people at roadside restaurants and even beating up bikers. These repeated incidents have triggered a social media firestorm, with many demanding strict action against those who take the law into their own hands.

Law Above All: Social Media Demands Justice

The viral videos and trending hashtags reflect growing public anger. Netizens are asking: “Does religious faith give anyone the right to terrorize innocent families?” Others point out that police must ensure that no one—devotee or otherwise—is above the law.

Police Statement & The Road Ahead

Authorities have promised zero tolerance for such behavior. “Anyone who takes the law into their own hands will be prosecuted, no matter who they are,” said a senior police official. “Law and order must be maintained at all costs.”

Conclusion: Can Law Prevail Over Mob Fury?

As the Kawad Yatra continues, all eyes are on the authorities to see if they can restore order and ensure the safety of common citizens. The message is clear: faith is personal, but violence is a crime.

What do you think about this shocking incident? Share your thoughts in the comments below and stay tuned for the latest updates!