A chaotic scene unfolded in Haldwani’s Banbhoolpura area as violence erupted during an anti-encroachment drive, leaving four people dead and over 100 police personnel injured, according to a senior official. State ADG Law & Order AP Anshuman confirmed the toll, stating, “Four people died in the violence-hit Banbhoolpura and more than 100 policemen were injured.”
Whereas, some reports have stated that six individuals lost their lives in the violence, including a father-son duo named Johnny and Anas, alongside Aris, Faheem, Israr, and Siwan. In response to the unrest, the district administration suspended internet services and ordered the closure of all schools and colleges to curb further escalation of violence.
Uttarakhand government heightened alert across the state as a precautionary measure following the outbreak of violence. Four companies of paramilitary forces were swiftly deployed to Haldwani, along with two companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) from Udham Singh Nagar, as per Uttarakhand Police.
Inspector General Nilesh Anand Bharne stated, “Four companies of paramilitary personnel have been sent to the violence-hit area of Haldwani. Two companies of PAC from Udham Singh Nagar have already reached Haldwani.”
#WATCH | Haldwani violence | DM Nainital, Vandana Singh addresses a press conference.
She says, "You can see (in the video) that the Police force and the administration are not provoking or harming anybody." pic.twitter.com/e6GL38vQB9
— ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024
In response to the situation, a curfew was imposed in Banbhoolpura, and a shoot-at-sight order was issued against the rioters on the orders of the District Magistrate.
Earlier, Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Abhinav Kumar informed about a request made to the Ministry of Home Affairs for additional central paramilitary personnel to control the situation.
District Magistrate (DM) Vandana Singh held a press briefing, showcasing videos of the violence to the media, emphasizing that the attack on the police forces was unprovoked. “You can see (in the video) that the Police force and the administration are not provoking or harming anybody,” she stated.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami convened a meeting of senior officials in Dehradun to address the situation. The demolition, carried out in the presence of municipal authorities, was part of an anti-encroachment drive.
As investigations continue into the events surrounding the violence, authorities remain vigilant to prevent further escalation and restore peace in Haldwani.
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