Uttarakhand: Violence over madrasa demolition claims 6 lives in Haldwani

Pic/PTI

Six rioters were killed in the violence that broke out over the demolition of an illegally-built madrasa in Haldwani, Uttarakhand. A curfew has been imposed and shoot-at-sight orders were issued Thursday when violence erupted in a Haldwani locality.

Six rioters were killed, SP (City) Harbans Singh told PTI on Friday. Seven injured people, including a journalist, are receiving treatment at three different hospitals in the town. Around 60 people admitted to different hospitals in the town were discharged after first aid.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who visited Haldwani to take stock of the situation a day after the clashes, said it was a "planned attack" on police personnel and individuals injured in the recent violence. He said that strict action will be taken against the miscreants.

On Thursday night, clashes erupted in Haldwani, after an anti-encroachment drive in Banbhoolpura area. However, Uttarakhand government said the anti-encroachment drive was conducted as per court's direction. The state government issued a high alert across the state on Friday, and security was tightened in Banbhoolpura.

Addressing a press conference, Uttarakhand CM condemned the Haldwani violence and said that some people have tried to spoil the atmosphere in 'Dev Bhoomi' and took the law into their own hands. He added that the administration was attacked with petrol bombs and stones, and there was arson also.

"The anti-encroachment drive has been going on as per the court's direction. Yesterday when the administration was trying to raze illegal property, this violence broke out and our Police personnel including women officers were attacked and stones were pelted at them. The administration had notified people beforehand. This is highly condemnable," CM Dhami said.

Meanwhile, the district administration has ordered the suspension of internet services and the closure of all schools and colleges.

Expressing deep concern over the Haldwani violence incident, Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh termed the incident unfortunate and assured that the accused will be identified and strict action will be taken against them.

(With PTI inputs)