Earlier today, the unauthorized madrasa situated close to the Banbhulpura police station in Haldwani was demolished by the local civic body. Consequently, a series of confrontations erupted when troublemakers hurled stones at law enforcement officials and ignited multiple vehicles, including a police car.
According to a report by India Today on Thursday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has issued orders to shoot-at-sight in Banbhulpura, Haldwani, following riots that erupted after the demolition of an illegal mosque. The Chief Minister has also announced the closure of all schools in Haldwani on Friday.
Earlier today, the local civic body demolished an illegal madrasa near the Banbhulpura police station in Haldwani. As a result, clashes broke out, with miscreants throwing stones at police officers and setting vehicles, including a police car, on fire. They also vandalized several vehicles and set a transformer ablaze.
In response to the situation, the chief minister held a meeting with the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, leading to the imposition of a curfew in Banbhulpura. Officials have stated that people will only be allowed to leave their homes in case of medical emergencies.
Dhami explained that the anti-encroachment drive in the Banbhulpura area of Haldwani was carried out by the administration following a court order. He stated, “Anti-social elements there got into a brawl with the police. A few police personnel and administrative officials sustained injuries.”
To address the escalating situation, additional police and central forces are being deployed in the area. Dhami emphasized that strict action will be taken against the rioters and encroachers who committed acts of arson.
The police have reported that several district administration officials and police personnel have sustained injuries.
What happened in Haldwani
At approximately 4 pm today, Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar reported that a joint team consisting of the District Administration and Police was carrying out an anti-encroachment drive in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani, in accordance with the Court’s order. However, he expressed his opposition to the fact that a few individuals with criminal tendencies resorted to pelting stones and engaging in arson.
Furthermore, it has been alleged that these individuals also resorted to firing at the Police using illegal firearms. In response to this situation, DIG Kumaon promptly arrived at the scene, and additional Police forces have been summoned. The State Government has also requested the Ministry of Home Affairs for additional Police forces to address the situation effectively.
Kumar further informed that the Ministry of Home Affairs has made available four companies of additional central forces to Uttarakhand. According to the available information, several Police personnel and administration officials have sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment in hospitals. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported thus far.
The chief of police stated that the circumstances were highly charged yet managed. “In the forthcoming days, the individuals responsible for the occurrence will be recognized and appropriate measures will be implemented against them.”