On February 8, violence erupted in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, following a demolition drive by the administration at a mosque and madrasa site, reportedly on Nazool land. The incident resulted in a few fatalities and numerous injuries. Following CM Dhami’s directives, a curfew and shoot-at-sight orders were imposed.
As of now, the situation in the city is under control, with paramilitary forces overseeing the affected area. Schools and government institutions remain closed for security reasons. Initially, internet services were halted to quell unrest, but they have since been restored, except in the affected region.
The name Abdul Malik has surfaced prominently in connection with the Haldwani Riots. Allegations suggest he is the orchestrator behind the unrest, and police have arrested him from Delhi.
Who is the Mastermind Behind the Haldwani Riots?
Since Saturday, law enforcement has conducted raids in various areas, resulting in the detention of over 75 individuals involved in the unrest. Additionally, women have been implicated in the disturbances.
Abdul Malik, the alleged mastermind behind the turmoil in Haldwani, has been apprehended in Delhi and is currently undergoing interrogation after being brought to Haldwani. Abdul Malik, linked to the madrasa where violence erupted in Banbhulpura, had been instructed to relinquish possession of the land as early as January.
A dated video from January has emerged, depicting Abdul Malik in a confrontation with Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay. In the footage, Abdul Malik asserts, “I hold a 99-year lease on this land, yet you demand its vacation. However, the lease has expired, and we have not been granted freehold rights. Nonetheless, the majority of land in Haldwani is under leasehold, with only a few enjoying freehold. We refuse to surrender our claim.”
In response, Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay insists, “Your lease has expired, and you lack freehold rights. I am reclaiming possession of the land, and you must vacate immediately.”
Haldwani Riots Current Update
Two fatalities and several severe injuries occurred amidst the turmoil sparked by the demolition of an ‘illegally constructed’ madrassa and its prayer area in Haldwani City, Uttarakhand. Concurrently, numerous police officers sustained injuries from stone-pelting incidents.
In response to the Haldwani violence, a magisterial inquiry has been initiated, with directives to conclude the investigation within 15 days. Chief Secretary Radha Raturi’s order mandates Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat to conduct the inquiry and furnish a report to the government within the specified timeframe.