Shoot At Sight Ordered After Violence Gripped Haldwani In Uttarakhand, Several Police Officers Injured

Shoot at sight has been ordered after massive violence broke out at Banbhoolpura, Haldwani in Uttarakhand over state government’s decision to demolish a Madrasa following anti-encroachment drive on Thursday. More than fifty police officers have been injured in clashes that ensued between them and a mob that resisted the demolition. DM Nainital has imposed curfew in Banbhoolpura and also ordered a shoot-on-sight order for rioters. Schools in the area have been given a holiday on Friday after tension erupted. Stone pelting has been reported, several vehicles have been torched. After police retaliated with tera gas shells, the violence had intensified. The Madrasa is adjoining a Mosque and locals claim, district administration had violated the Madrasa in the morning. Prohibitory orders have been issued, restricting gathering of people after the violence. 

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has appealed for peace while defending the state action as legal after a court order. “The team had gone there for the demolition of an illegal structure after a court order. Anti-social elements had entered into a brawl with the police. 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 and encroachers who committed arson," said Pushkar Singh Dhami. 

SSP Prahlad Meena said the madrasa demolition took place after a prior notice to the residents. “The demolition was carried out in the presence of Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay, City Magistrate Richa Singh, SDM Paritosh Verma”, he added. Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar said, "As of now, the situation is under control. Several police personnel and administration officials sustained injuries and have been admitted to hospitals. 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."