Dehradun, June 17 -- Following a violent clash over a parking dispute in Chamoli district's Karnaprayag town that left five people injured on Tuesday, the Hemkund Sahib Management Trust has underlined that the kirpans or swords carried by pilgrims are not meant for offensive purposes.

"The kirpan symbolises a Sikh's duty to defend the weak, protect those facing oppression, and uphold righteousness," Hemkund Sahib Management Trust chairperson NS Bindra said on Wednesday. His appeal to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage came after a clash erupted on Tuesday between local residents and pilgrims returning from the Hemkund Sahib shrine.

While acknowledging constitutional protections, Bindra urged devotees to exercise restraint. "Tuesday...