Four Dead, 250 Injured as Violence Erupts Over Demolition of Illegal Madrasa, Mosque in Haldwani
GG News Bureau
Haldwani, 9th Feb. Chaos engulfed the city of Haldwani in Uttarakhand as clashes erupted over the demolition of an illegal madrasa and mosque on Thursday, leaving four people dead and around 250 injured. The incident has prompted authorities to impose a curfew, issue shoot-at-sight orders, and shut down internet services in a bid to quell the unrest.
Tensions escalated sharply when a team of government officials, backed by a significant police presence, moved to dismantle the structures following a court order declaring them illegal. However, their efforts were met with fierce resistance from a mob in the Vanbhulpura area, triggering violent confrontations.
Over 50 policemen sustained injuries during the clashes, with several administration officials, municipal workers, and journalists also caught in the crossfire. The mob, described as “unruly elements,” attacked officials with stones, prompting law enforcement to respond with tear gas. The situation further deteriorated as vehicles were set ablaze outside the police station, escalating the law and order crisis.
The demolition, carried out under heavy police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) presence, aimed to clear government land allegedly encroached upon by the madrasa and mosque. Senior Superintendent of Police Prahlad Meena emphasized that the demolitions were in compliance with a court order.
However, the move triggered widespread outrage among residents, leading to protests in the streets. Despite attempts to disperse the crowds, confrontations between protesters and authorities intensified, resulting in injuries and property damage.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami responded to the incident, asserting that the demolition was carried out following due process under the law. He condemned the violence perpetrated by “anti-social elements” and assured additional police and central forces deployment to restore order.
Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay reiterated the illegality of the structures, emphasizing previous actions taken by the civic body to seize land and seal the properties. Meanwhile, the injured are receiving treatment at Soban Singh Jeena Hospital, with many suffering from head and face injuries.
The situation remains tense as a curfew blankets Haldwani, prompting the closure of shops and schools in affected areas. Chief Minister Dhami has urged officials to take strict measures against those inciting unrest, while the Uttarakhand High Court is set to hear further proceedings on February 14 regarding a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) related to the demolition.
