The violence erupted in the city's Banbhoolpura area after the madrasa was demolished by the authorities. As per the Senior Superintendent of Police Prahlad Meena, a notice was earlier on the madrasa constructed illegally on government land.
Violence in Haldwani:
The confrontation reached boiling point when the demolition drive was resisted by locals. After a bulldozer demolished the madrasa, mobs started pelting stones, reported PTI. The additional force was then called in.
The mob threw stones at the officials, prompting the police to retaliate with tear gas. They also set fire on several vehicles, further deteriorating the law and order situation. The clash resulted in over 250 people, including 50 policemen, being injured in the crossfire.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pshkar Singh has called a meeting of of senior officials over the prevailing situation in Haldwani. A curfew was announced in the entire Halwani city.
SSP Meena said the demolition was carried out in the presence of Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay, City Magistrate Richa Singh and SDM Paritosh Verma. A heavy police deployment has been made in the area. Authorities are identifying the accused. No arrests have been made so far.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking to halt the demolition was filed in the Uttarakhand High Court on Thursday. The court, however, did not grant relief, paving the way for the demolition. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on February 14.