Uttarakhand: Violence erupts in Haldwani after 'illegal' madrasa demolition, shoot-at-sight ordered

The authorities in Uttarakhand's Haldwani demolished a madrasa believed to have been illegally constructed near the Banbhulpura police station on Thursday. Miscreants threw stones at police officers after the demolition and set police vehicles on fire. Several officials were reportedly injured in the incident. Videos of the incident have surfaced on social media. Additional forces have been called to Haldwani amid tense situation in the area. Police resorted to tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. 

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami called a high-level meeting and reviewed the situation with the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police. He also appealed to the people to maintain peace. Shoot-at-sight orders have been issued in the area and security has been strengthened.

"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. Strict action will be taken against rioters and encroachers who committed arson," CM Dhami said.

Uttarakhand DGP  Abhinav Kumar said, "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."

WATCH | Uttarakhand | Violence broke out in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani following an anti-encroachment drive today. DM Nainital has imposed curfew in Banbhoolpura and ordered a shoot-on-sight order for rioters. Details awaited. pic.twitter.com/Qykla7UO65

— ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2024

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