Rishikesh: Rishikesh witnessed a shocking incident last Thursday evening when a dispute over a scooter turned into a bloody clash between two groups. The fight, which began with heated arguments, escalated into violence at Parshuram Chowk, one of the busiest areas of the pilgrimage city.
According to police, the quarrel started between boys from Bankhandi and Ganganagar. What began as a simple argument over the scooter quickly spiraled out of control. In the heat of the moment, one side pulled out a sharp-edged weapon and attacked.
A young man was brutally assaulted with a sword-like weapon
A young man named Sarthak was brutally assaulted with a sword-like weapon. The attack severed his fingers, leaving him bleeding heavily in the middle of the street. Panic spread among bystanders as the roads turned into a battlefield. Sarthak was rushed first to a government hospital and later shifted to AIIMS, where he is undergoing treatment. Two other youths sustained minor injuries in the clash.
Police registered a case based on a complaint
CO Neeraj Semwal confirmed that police registered a case based on a complaint filed by the injured man’s friend. Efforts are underway to identify and arrest the attackers. The incident has created fear among residents living near Parshuram Chowk, who allege that such violent episodes are becoming more frequent in the city.
Rishikesh is witnessing rising criminal incidents
Locals expressed concern that Rishikesh, known for its spiritual atmosphere, is increasingly witnessing criminal incidents. Despite police assurances of safety, crime graphs appear to be rising. Residents say the atmosphere of devotion is being overshadowed by repeated acts of violence.
This clash comes just weeks after another shocking crime in Rishikesh. On January 31, 2026, a woman living alone in Shivaji Nagar was shot dead inside her home. The accused, reportedly her lover, fled after the incident. Police later revealed that the murder was linked to a love affair, even though the woman was divorced.
Growing law-and-order challenges in Rishikesh
Together, these incidents highlight the growing law-and-order challenges in Rishikesh. Citizens are demanding stronger police presence and stricter action against criminals to restore peace in the pilgrimage city.