The Banbhulpura area of Haldwani, Nainital district, descended into chaos as communal tensions flared following the demolition of a madrasa and an underground mosque-like structure built illegally on government land. The demolition, carried out by a joint team from the district administration and local civic authorities, triggered a violent backlash from enraged locals.
The situation quickly escalated into a confrontation between the police and residents, with reports of stone pelting, setting up barricades, and torching of vehicles. In response to the escalating violence, District Magistrate (DM) of Nainital imposed a curfew in Banbhulpura and authorized law enforcement to use lethal force, including shoot-on-sight orders for rioters.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami convened an emergency meeting to address the unfolding crisis, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The presence of top officials, including Chief Secretary Radha Raturi and Director General of Police Uttarakhand Abhinav Kumar, highlighted the government’s concerted efforts to restore order and prevent further violence.
Dhami defended the administration’s actions, citing a court order mandating the anti-encroachment drive in the area. He emphasized the need for peace and warned of strict action against those resorting to violence and arson.
According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Prahlad Meena, the demolition was executed following prior notice to the residents, under the supervision of municipal and administrative officials. However, the demolition sparked clashes, resulting in injuries to several police personnel and officials, who have been hospitalized for treatment.
While the situation remains tense, Uttarakhand Director General of Police Abhinav Kumar assured that the authorities have the situation under control and are actively investigating the incident. He reiterated the commitment to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the violence.
The unrest in Haldwani underscores the challenges posed by communal tensions and the imperative for swift and decisive action to maintain law and order. As authorities work to quell the violence and restore calm, efforts to address the underlying issues and prevent future flare-ups remain paramount.
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[…] pelting stones at policemen and Municipal Corporation workers present during the demolition. The situation quickly spiraled out of control, with the mob setting fire to vehicles and a transformer, …. Several journalists and administration officials found themselves trapped inside the besieged […]