Violence In Uttarakhand Over Madrasa Demolition: Shoot-At-Sight Order Issued In Haldwani District

Violence broke out on Thursday in Uttarakhand's Banbhoolpura area in Haldwani district following the demolition drive at a mosque and a madrasa.

DM Nainital has imposed curfew in Banbhoolpura and ordered a shoot-on-sight order for rioters. Responding to the situation, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said, "In Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani, a team from the administration had gone for an anti-encroachment drive, following the court's order. Anti-social elements there entered into a brawl with the Police. A few Police personnel & administrative officials sustained injuries.

Additional companies of Police and Central Forces are being sent there. We have appealed to everyone to maintain peace. Curfew is in place. Strict action will be taken against rioters & encroachers who committed arson."

As per Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar, a joint team of District Administration and Police was conducting an anti-encroachment drive in Banbhoolpura around 4 pm. However, a few anti-social elements pelted stones and caused arson.

"It is also being said that they fired at the Police using illegal weapons...DIG Kumaon reached the spot immediately and additional Police forces have also been called there. State Government has also demanded the MHA for additional Police forces. MHA has made 4 companies of additional central forces available to us. CM called an emergency meeting at his residence sometime back...As of now, the situation is under control," he said.

He further claimed that several Police personnel and administration officials sustained injuries and have been admitted to hospitals. "No casualties reported yet. The situation is tense but under control...In the days to come, the people behind the incident will be identified and action will be taken against them," he added.