Haldwani Unrest: Allegations of Police Brutality and Outsiders’ Role in Arson

Date:

Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India

HALDWANI  – The serenity and tranquillity normally associated with Malik Ka Baghicha locality in this city of Uttarakhand state was completely shattered on February 8. Chaos and mayhem struck this once bustling neighbourhood last week after large-scale violence in the aftermath of the demolition of a madrassa.

The entire area now resembles a battlefield with debris strewn around, burnt vehicles and locked houses. The only inhabitants still clinging on to their homes and hearths – and possibly their hopes – are those who were unable to leave – the elderly, the disabled, and children.

Access to Muslim-dominated areas has been restricted with heavy police presence put in place. The cops are enforcing strict measures.

Following the outbreak of violence on February 8 which resulted in the death of six persons, the situation remains tense. Hundreds of people, including some policemen, were reportedly injured in the melee. A curfew, albeit with minor relaxations, remains in effect, particularly in Muslim-dominated areas and around Malik Ka Baghicha.

Braving all the obstacles, Clarion India and some others of the media fraternity managed to reach Malik Ka Baghicha, only to witness scenes of devastation reminiscent of a war zone.

What greeted us was a scene of near-desertion, as nearly everyone had fled following claims of relentless police raids and reports of harassment. The only audible sounds were the occasional coughs of elderly residents in a few remaining houses. Peering out from behind curtains and windows, a handful of individuals watched us with a mixture of fear, shock, and terror evident in their expressions.

Speaking to Clarion India, SDM Nainital Pramod Kumar assured that essential items could be procured during the curfew relaxation period, emphasising efforts to mitigate difficulties faced by residents.

However, amidst the chaos, allegations of police misconduct and brutality have emerged. Residents recounted instances of vandalism and aggression by law enforcement officials, with homes being ransacked and properties damaged in the name of investigation. Distressed voices spoke of disabled individuals being targeted and family members arbitrarily detained.

A distraught mother described her anguish as her disabled child was assaulted, and her husband arrested. Her husband is the sole bread-earner in the family. Now the hapless woman has the aged responsibility of providing for her family’s basic needs.

Numerous families echoed similar accounts of unwarranted arrests, leaving them without access to food or essential supplies. Even during brief periods of curfew relaxation, fear and uncertainty loom large as men remain in police custody, leaving women and children vulnerable to further harassment and violence.

Reports suggest that the vandalism extended beyond homes to include public property, with municipal vehicles set ablaze. However, local residents allege that outsiders, concealing their identities, were responsible for these acts, while police target innocent civilians.

In the face of mounting allegations, clarity and accountability from authorities are paramount to restore peace and justice in Haldwani. As the community grapples with the aftermath of violence and displacement, the need for transparency and redressal of grievances cannot be overstated.

Clarion India’s interviews with affected individuals shed light on the human toll of this crisis, emphasising the urgency of addressing systemic issues to prevent further harm.

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