Haldwani violence: ‘Mastermind’ Abdul Malik arrested from Delhi
Malik and his son have been booked by the Uttarakhand Police for inciting violence in Haldwani on February 8.
A curfew has been imposed and shoot-at-sight orders have been issued in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani after violence over demolition of a madrasa.
Authorities had declared the madrasa built on a government land in the Banbhoolpura area illegal and ordered its demolition.
However, when authorities reached there to demolish the structure, an angry mob resisted and started pelting stones.
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At least 50 police personnel were injured in the clashes. They have been evacuated for medical treatment at a local hospital.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has appealed for calm and warned strict action against rioters.
“In Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani, a team from the administration had gone for an anti-encroachment drive, following 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,” Dhami said.
As tension gripped the state, former Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat said that he was concerned over the prevailing situation and appealed people to maintain peace and harmony.
“I am very concerned and sad looking at the situation in Haldwani. The history of Haldwani has been that of peace, harmony, brotherhood and progress. Today, we are ashamed of the situation that has arisen there…All the sides should maintain peace and try to have harmony once again. I have contacted a lot of people. The people in Haldwani are sad…,” Rawat said.
Meanwhile, the curfew has come into force in Haldwani from 9 PM and will remain into force untill further orders.
People have been asked to stay inside their houses. Shops and other businesses have also been asked to stay closed until further orders.
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