Haldwani Erupts in Violence After Madrasa Demolition: Shoot-at-Sight Orders Issued, Curfew Imposed

Haldwani (Uttarakhand): Clashes erupted in Haldwani’s Banbhulpura area on Thursday after officials demolished an allegedly illegal madrasa near the police station. The incident sparked violence, with protesters throwing stones at police, vandalizing vehicles, and setting some ablaze, including a police car.

In response to the escalating situation, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami issued shoot-at-sight orders in Banbhulpura and imposed a curfew to maintain peace. Schools across Haldwani will remain closed on Friday.

The violence stemmed from an anti-encroachment drive conducted by municipal authorities following a court order. Locals residing near the demolished madrasa reportedly retaliated by attacking police personnel, causing injuries to several officials.

To quell the unrest, additional police and central forces, including paramilitary units, have been deployed in Haldwani. The situation is said to be under control now.

Chief Minister Dhami condemned the violence and vowed strict action against rioters and encroachers involved in arson. Authorities will identify and prosecute the accused using video evidence and other means. Damages caused during the riots will be recovered from the perpetrators.