Social activists from Dehradun, Haldwani, Nainital, and Ramnagar issued a joint statement condemning the biased police action and expressing condolences to the families of the victims.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – Six people lost their lives in the violence that rocked the Uttarakhand city of Haldwani on Thursday as marauding bulldozers razed a madrassa and a mosque.
Authorities allege that the violence began as officials started the bulldozing operation. When things went out of control, shoot-at-sight orders were issued, resulting in the killing of six people. Among those who lost their lives are Jani and his three sons, Anas, Aaris, and Faheem. Jani’s family belongs to Ghafoor Basti. Besides, Israr and Siwan, both from Ban Bholpora, succumbed to their injuries.
Requesting anonymity, a social activist from Haldwani told Clarion India over the phone that the situation in the city was very tense. He said the demolished structures are under litigation in a local court. On Thursday, the court held a hearing, but no order was issued. Despite this, officials arrived with bulldozers and initiated the demolition process, sparking chaos. The next hearing is scheduled for February 14.
Another resident of Haldwani, speaking to Clarion India, described the situation as a “wait and watch” scenario.
Meanwhile, social activists from Dehradun, Haldwani, Nainital, and Ramnagar issued a joint statement condemning the biassed police action and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
Haldwani activists have demanded reasonable compensation for those killed in the violence. Simultaneously, they urged the government and administration to take legal action against those responsible. Social activists expressed their dismay at the administration’s attitude, noting bias in dealing with encroachment issues. The social activists issuing the joint statement are Rajeev Shah (President, Uttarakhand Lok Vahni), Naresh Mandyal (General Secretary, Uttarakhand Paryoortan Party), Tarun Joshi (One Panchayat Sangharsh Morcha), Pawan Pathak and Shankar Dutt (Sadbhawna Committee Uttarakhand), and Lochan Bhatt (freelance journalist).
Amidst the turmoil, numerous individuals, both Muslims and non-Muslims, have sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Reports reaching here suggest that the rioters raised anti-Muslim slogans. Videos of these incidents have gone viral on social media platforms. Disturbing footage shows a Muslim woman being physically assaulted, dragged, and verbally abused by individuals donning khaki uniforms.
Furthermore, videos of stone pelting at Muslim neighborhoods have also surfaced. However, certain media outlets, including those associated with the government, are accused of exacerbating tensions by selectively airing one-sided videos, contributing to an anti-Muslim narrative.
Meanwhile, a state-wide alert has been issued in response to the violence. Security measures are being intensified, with close monitoring of sensitive areas.
Uttar Pradesh has also been placed on alert, and vigilance is particularly focused on the borders between Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Intelligence units in both states have been notified, and social media activity is under surveillance.
DGP Prashant Kumar has instructed officers in the Bareilly zone to remain vigilant, and security has been bolstered as a precautionary measure.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami convened a high-level meeting with officials. The current situation was thoroughly reviewed, and clear instructions were issued to the police to deal firmly with the perpetrators.
Describing the violence as unfortunate, Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh asserted that perpetrators will be identified and strict action will be taken against them.
The Haldwani violence should be viewed as a challenge to the state machinery, government, and law and order situation rather than a communal or sensitive issue, she said.
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