Uttarakhand Chief Minister Issues Shoot at Sight Orders to Quell Unrest

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Issues Shoot at Sight Orders to Quell Unrest, Violent Clashes Erupt in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani Following Madrasa Demolition, Curfew Enforced

Quick Summary

Violence erupted in Banbhoolpura Haldwani after the demolition of a suspected illegal madrasa. Clashes ensued, prompting a curfew and shoot-at-sight orders by Chief Minister Dhami. The unrest followed an anti-encroachment drive, leading to clashes, injuries, and property damage. Additional forces were deployed as the situation escalated with stone-throwing and gunfire. The Chief Minister vowed strict action, closed schools, and urged cooperation with law enforcement. Investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute those involved in the violent clashes.

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A wave of violence swept through the streets of Banbhoolpura Haldwani on Thursday, mere hours after municipal authorities razed a madrasa suspected of illegal construction. The demolition triggered clashes, prompting authorities to impose a curfew as miscreants engaged in stone-throwing, arson, and attacks on law enforcement, resulting in injuries and significant property damage.

Curfew In Haldwani

The unrest reached a point where Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami issued shoot-at-sight orders in the troubled Banbhoolpura area to restore order. In a bid to contain the situation, Dhami announced the closure of all schools in Haldwani on Friday and made a fervent appeal for peace among the agitated populace.

What happened in Banbhoolpura Haldwani

According to an India Today report, the chaos unfolded as a team from the administration embarked on an anti-encroachment drive in compliance with a court order. A clash ensued between anti-social elements and the police, leading to injuries sustained by several police personnel and administrative officials. To curb the violence, additional police forces and tear gas were deployed.

Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar revealed that the situation escalated when protesters not only hurled stones but also set vehicles, including a police car, ablaze. Some individuals reportedly fired at the police using illegal weapons. Kumar stated, “The State Government has demanded additional police forces from the Ministry of Home Affairs, and 4 companies of additional central forces have been made available.”

In an emergency meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the violence and encroachment. Dhami urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement and assured that the situation was under control, despite the tense atmosphere.

Earlier in the day, the municipal corporation demolished the madrasa near the Banbhulpura police station, with the presence of officials including Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay and City Magistrate Richa Singh. The demolition was carried out following a prior notice to the residents. Reacting to the action, a group of nearby residents initiated the violent clash, resulting in injuries to law enforcement officials and the destruction of public and private property.

As the city grapples with the aftermath of the clashes, investigations are underway to identify and prosecute those involved in the violent unrest in Banbhoolpura Haldwani.

Where is Haldwani

Nestled in the heart of Kumaon, Haldwani stands as the largest city in the region, boasting the title of the third most populous city and the largest commercial market in the state of Uttarakhand. Known as the financial capital of Uttarakhand, Haldwani pulsates with commercial, economic, and industrial activities, making it a key player in the state’s economic landscape.

Situated in the picturesque Nainital District, Haldwani is a vital subdivision among the eight that form the district. The Haldwani Urban agglomeration, with a population of 232,060 as of 2011, holds the distinction of being the third most populous Urban Agglomeration in Uttarakhand, following Dehradun and Haridwar. Its strategic location in the immediate foothills of the Kumaon Himalayas, particularly the Kathgodam neighborhood, has earned Haldwani the moniker “Gateway to Kumaon.”

Founded in 1834, Haldwani originated as a market catering to hill people seeking respite in the Bhabar region during the cold season. The town’s significance grew with the establishment of the Bareilly–Nainital provincial road in 1882 and the Bhojeepura–Kathgodam railway line by Rohilkund and Kumaon Railway in 1884. These developments transformed Haldwani into a major trading post and a pivotal link between the hilly terrains of Kumaon and the fertile plains of the Indo-Gangetic region.

Situated in the Bhabhar region along the banks of the Gaula River, Haldwani has evolved into a dynamic urban center, reflecting the harmonious blend of tradition and progress. Its strategic location, coupled with historical transportation developments, has solidified its role as a bustling hub connecting the diverse landscapes of Kumaon and the plains. Haldwani continues to be a beacon of economic activity and cultural exchange, embodying the spirit of Uttarakhand’s growth and development.

Haldwani is home to people of different religions. Most people, about 57.84%, follow Hinduism. The Haldwani Muslim Population is around 41.89%.

Apart from these two major religions, there is a mix of other beliefs. Some people, 0.89%, follow Christianity, while 2.19% are Sikhs. A small number, 0.09%, practice Jainism, and the same goes for Buddhism

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