Massive Clashes Erupt in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani After ‘Illegal’ Madrasa Demolition

GG News Bureau
Haldwani, 8th Feb. Tensions flared in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani on Thursday as clashes erupted following the demolition of an alleged ‘illegal’ madrasa by state officials. Reports said that the situation escalated, with miscreants pelting stones at police officers and setting vehicles, including a police car, ablaze.

The controversial demolition of the madrasa, suspected to have been constructed unlawfully near the Banbhulpura police station, was executed by Haldwani’s municipal corporation officials. Enraged by the action, a mob hurled stones at the police administration and journalists, resulting in multiple injuries, including that of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). Additionally, a transformer was set alight, plunging the area into darkness.

 

#WATCH | Uttarakhand | Violence broke out in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani following an anti-encroachment drive today. DM Nainital has imposed curfew in Banbhoolpura and ordered a shoot-on-sight order for rioters. Details awaited. pic.twitter.com/Qykla7UO65

— ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2024

 

 

 

The chaos further intensified as the mob besieged the Banbhulpura police station, trapping several journalists and administration officials inside.

In response to the escalating unrest, the district administration quickly imposed a curfew in Vanbhulpura and barricaded roads to contain the situation.

The gravity of the situation prompted the state government to authorize security personnel to employ lethal force against unruly elements, with reports of a shoot-on-sight order for rioters issued by the news agency ANI.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami convened an emergency meeting with top officials, including Chief Secretary Radha Raturi and Director General of Police Uttarakhand Abhinav Kumar.

Dhami clarified that the administration’s actions were in compliance with a court order and emphasized the imperative of maintaining peace. He vowed stringent action against rioters and encroachers.

Uttarakhand’s DGP Abhinav Kumar provided insight into the sequence of events, stating, “A joint team of District Administration and Police was conducting an anti-encroachment drive… Opposing that, a few anti-social elements pelted stones and caused arson.”

Kumar assured that the situation was currently under control, though several police personnel and administration officials were hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the clashes.

Authorities vowed to identify and prosecute those responsible for the violence, underscoring their commitment to restoring order and upholding the rule of law amidst the tumultuous events unfolding in Haldwani.