Tensions escalate in Haldwani as mosque demolition triggers protests, clashes with police. Authorities impose curfew, deploy additional forces
Team Clarion
HALDWANI: Riots erupted in Haldwani, Nainital district, leading to a tense atmosphere on Thursday. The Nainital District Magistrate has enforced a curfew in the city, with orders to shoot aggressors on sight. The Chief Education Officer, Nainital, has mandated the closure of all schools in the Haldwani development block from classes 1 to 12 until February 9 due to security concerns.
The unrest began when a joint team of authorities and the Haldwani Municipal Corporation demolished a madrassa and mosque in the ‘Malik Ke Bagh’ area of Banbholpura police station. Locals protested against the action, escalating the situation. Despite police efforts, including the use of tear gas, tensions continued to rise, with agitators setting fire to police vehicles and the Banbholpura police station.
Numerous injuries were reported among policemen and journalists, prompting hospitalizations. Heavy police presence now blankets the area as authorities work to restore calm. In response to the crisis, CM Dhami called for an emergency meeting in Dehradun, pledging strict action against miscreants and encroachers.
Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay defended the demolition, citing the structures’ illegality and claiming previous acquisition attempts. However, locals argue the targeting of Muslim property, denouncing the actions as unjust.
