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Haldwani: Four people are dead and 250 were injured in Haldwani, located in the heart of Uttarakhand, in a volatile conflict unfolded when police attempted to destroy a madrassa deemed illegal. The peaceful morning of February 8, 2024, was ruined by a violent clash between law enforcement and an unruly mob. More than 50 police officers were injured in the confrontation in Vanbhoolpura, many of whom are still undergoing treatment at a local hospital.
As the sun began to rise in the picturesque town of Haldwani, a group of municipal employees, accompanied by a contingent of police officers, descended on the madrassa. This building located in Vanbhoolpura area had been a cause of controversy for a long time. Despite repeated warnings from the Haldwani Municipal Corporation, the madrasa continued to operate, reportedly without the necessary permits and approvals.
As soon as the demolition team reached inside, a crowd of agitated locals gathered. The situation quickly deteriorated, with the crowd pelting stones at police officers and setting vehicles on fire. In return, the police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. In the ensuing melee, more than 50 police officers were injured, with several journalists and administration officials also reported caught in the chaos.
In response to the violence, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami imposed a curfew in the affected area and issued shoot-at-sight orders to maintain order. The security presence in the area has been significantly increased, with additional forces called in to quell the unrest.
The Chief Minister has canceled all his scheduled programs and is currently holding an emergency meeting with senior officials in Dehradun. He has promised strict action against those responsible for the violence and appealed for peace and restraint from the residents of Haldwani.
The Haldwani incident is symptomatic of a larger issue that has been going on in the region for some time. Tension has increased as the Haldwani Municipal Corporation continues its anti-encroachment drive, aiming to demolish several religious places and structures. Despite efforts by local religious leaders and councilors to calm the situation, the madrassa incident has raised fears of further unrest and violence.
As the sun sets on a day full of turmoil in Haldwani, the echoes of conflict continue to echo in the city. The injured officers remain in the hospital, their wounds a reminder of the violence that took place in their city. Residents of Haldwani are struggling with the post-clash situation as they wait with bated breath for the dust to settle.
The seeds of discord have been sown in the shadow of the demolished madrasa. As the city struggles to regain its balance, the question is: What will be the price of peace in Haldwani?
