In response to the turmoil surrounding the demolition of an allegedly “illegally built” madrasa and mosque in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani, Uttarakhand, the police have arrested 25 individuals, bringing the total count to 30, with five already in custody. The Uttarakhand government has requested additional central forces for deployment in Haldwani, seeking the assistance of four companies, each comprising about 100 personnel, to be stationed in Banbhoolpura.
SSP Nainital Prahlad Narayan Meena reported the registration of three FIRs related to the incident, with 25 arrests made on Sunday. The arrests resulted in the recovery of seven country-made pistols and 54 live rounds. The attackers, who targeted the Banbhoolpura Police Station, also looted government ammunition, of which 99 items have been retrieved.
While 30 individuals have been apprehended in connection with the Haldwani violence, authorities are actively searching for the main instigator, and efforts are underway to restore normalcy in the affected area.
The Uttarakhand government’s requisition for additional central forces indicates concerns about maintaining law and order in Banbhoolpura. With nearly 1,100 security personnel already deployed, the region witnessed six casualties and 60 injuries during Thursday’s violent episode.
Starting Monday, curfew restrictions will be lifted from all areas except those under the jurisdiction of the Banbhoolpura Police Station. Despite the easing of restrictions, shops in Banbhoolpura remained closed on Sunday, and internet services continued to be suspended to prevent misinformation through social media platforms.
A magisterial probe has been initiated, led by Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat, with instructions to conclude the investigation within 15 days. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami assured action against those responsible for disrupting law and order. The government is committed to addressing illegal encroachments across the state.
In a meeting with a delegation from the Uttarakhand Congress, Chief Minister Dhami reiterated the resolve to uphold law and order. Former Chief Minister Harish Rawat and several Congress MLAs were part of the delegation, urging immediate government action to restore peace in the riot-affected area.
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