In response to the recent outbreak of violence in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, the state government has taken significant steps to restore peace and order. Following clashes during the demolition of an illegal construction site, the government has revoked the curfew and deployed seven district magistrates to maintain law and order.
The decision to enforce a city-wide curfew came swiftly after the violence escalated on Thursday evening. The entire area of Haldwani has been divided into five super zones, with each zone assigned to the supervision of district magistrates or administrative officers. This strategic move aims to prevent any further escalation of violence.
Authorities have wasted no time in taking action against those responsible for the unrest. Five individuals have been arrested, and 19 people have been named in three FIRs registered in connection with the violence. Additionally, a total of 5,000 unidentified individuals are also under scrutiny for their involvement in the February 8 incident.
The violence erupted during an anti-encroachment drive in Haldwani’s Banbhoolpura area, where officials were demolishing an illegal mosque and madrasa. Tragically, six people lost their lives, and over 100 policemen sustained injuries in the clashes. The chaos also resulted in injuries to several administration officials, municipal workers, and journalists.
To restore order and ensure the safety of residents, shoot-at-sight orders have been issued in Haldwani. Furthermore, internet services have been completely shut down in an effort to control the spread of misinformation and prevent further violence.
Haldwani Violence has led to the establishment of 5 super zones.
- Super Zone 1 includes Taj four-way crossing and Kidwai Nagar area, among others.
- Super Zone 2 covers Gandhinagar and Indira Nagar areas.
- Super Zone 3 comprises Mangal Parao and Medical Mandir.
- Super Zone 4 extends from Kathgodam Police Station to Gaulapur to Rajpura Area.
- Super Zone 5 stretches from Nainital Urban to Mukhani Crossing.
Nainital District Magistrate, Vandana Singh, shed light on the severity of the situation, stating that rioters resorted to extreme measures, including throwing petrol bombs at a police station and setting vehicles ablaze. She emphasized that despite the initial peaceful intentions of the demolition drive, the forces were met with organized resistance, indicating premeditated violence.
In the aftermath of the violence, the scale of the damage and loss has become clearer. Over 5000 FIRs have been recorded, and more than 300 people have been injured, including a 16-year-old girl among the deceased. Security measures have been intensified across the city, with 1500 policemen and 7 magistrates deployed in the affected areas. Additionally, 10 paramilitary force companies have been stationed in Haldwani.
Efforts are underway to bring those responsible for the violence to justice, with over 50 individuals currently in police custody for questioning. Despite the tense situation, authorities are urging the public to remain calm and not succumb to rumors. The focus remains on restoring peace and ensuring the safety of all residents in Haldwani.
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