Clash Between Devotees and Police at Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura: Chaos Erupts Ahead of Kartik Purnima, Four Detained

**A chaotic scene unfolded on Tuesday morning at the world-famous Thakur Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura, as a massive crowd of devotees gathered ahead of Kartik Purnima. The rush to enter the temple led to a heated altercation between devotees and on-duty police personnel, which soon escalated into a physical clash involving punches and kicks.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred at the temple entrance when four devotees from Aliganj in Etah district argued with police officers over entry arrangements. The disagreement quickly turned violent as tempers flared amid the overcrowded conditions and lack of proper crowd management. The scuffle caused panic among other devotees waiting for darshan.

Following the commotion, additional police forces were deployed to the temple to regain control of the situation. The officers dispersed the crowd, restored order, and ensured the continuation of the temple’s routine proceedings. Police later detained the four devotees involved in the altercation and began questioning them.

Station House Officer (SHO) confirmed that the situation inside the temple premises is now completely normal, and devotees are being allowed smooth access for darshan. He added that, in view of Kartik Purnima, security arrangements have been further strengthened to ensure the safety and convenience of all visitors.

The incident highlights the urgent need for better crowd management planning during major religious occasions in Mathura, which attract lakhs of pilgrims from across the country. Proper coordination between temple administration and law enforcement is essential to prevent such disturbances in the future and maintain the sanctity of the holy site.