Two Killed In Uttarakhand Violence Following State Government’s Demolition drive

Two people killed and scores injured after violence broke out at Banbhoolpura town of Uttarakhand on Thursday evening over state government’s decision to demolish a Madrasa and an adjoining mosque following a court order that identified them as “illegal encroachment”. More than fifty police officials have sustained injuries as they grappled with a law and order situation, stones were pelted at them by the mob. The town has been placed under curfew and district administration has even ordered shoot-at-sight for rioters. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami held an emergency meeting late on Thursday evening and warned stringent action against rioting and arson. 

Trouble broke out after municipal officials reached the Madrasa at Banbhoolpura in Haldwani district, claim locals. Situation further escalated after officials, accompanied by police tried carrying out the demolition drive. Locals objected to it leading to ugly confrontation. Several vehicles were vandalised and set ablaze. Internet services were suspended in the area. Senior police officials claim, there could be ‘unruly elements’ in the mob that resisted the demolition drive. As a preventive measure, shops and schools have been asked to remain closed on Friday in the affected areas. Additional forces have been deployed, police have warned all rioters will be identified and action will be taken against them. 

According to Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay the madrasa and namaz site were identified as illegal and Haldwani civic body had previously sealed the structures. The matter was brought up before Uttarakhand High Court as PIL on Thursday but the court didn’t stay the demolition, rather scheduled the hearing for February 14.