On Thursday, a government team arrived in the Banbhulpura area of Haldwani to dismantle an illegally constructed mosque and madrasa, following court orders. However, residents vehemently opposed the action, leading to intense resistance.
According to recent updates, the government has declared a curfew and authorized shoot-on-sight orders against rioters. All establishments, including shops, schools, and colleges, are instructed to close. Citizens are advised to remain indoors unless necessary. Only essential services and medical facilities will remain operational in the city.
What Happened in Haldwani?
Upon reaching the designated site with the demolition mandate, the team encountered vehement opposition from residents. As bulldozers began dismantling the structures, enraged inhabitants, including women, took to the streets in protest.
Breaking through barricades, residents engaged in heated clashes with law enforcement, rapidly escalating the situation. Mobs proceeded to hurl stones at police, municipal workers, and journalists, resulting in injuries and property damage. More than 20 motorcycles were targeted, and a PAC-2 bus was set ablaze.
Numerous videos depicting stone-throwing and resistance by rioters have gone viral on social media platforms. Additional police and central forces are being deployed to restore order, with the Chief Minister urging the public to maintain calm.
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) has been invoked against individuals accused of disrupting Haldwani. Following the incident, authorities throughout Uttarakhand are on high alert.
2 Dead and 250 injured in Haldwani Riots
Multiple individuals, including several police officers on the scene, sustained injuries during the unrest. Rioters hurled stones at law enforcement, and in one video, a police official alleged that the mob attempted to set fire to a house where officers sought refuge from the stone-throwers.
According to reports, two fatalities have been recorded, with over 250 individuals injured. The wounded are receiving treatment at Soban Singh Jeena Hospital, with many suffering from head and facial injuries.