In the aftermath of the violent clashes on February 8 in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, over 300 Muslim families from the Banbhoolpoora area have left their homes in search of safety. The clashes resulted in the deaths of six individuals and left 60 others injured. The violence erupted following the demolition of an 'illegal' mosque and madrasa during an anti-encroachment drive in the area.
The fleeing families were observed walking along roads with their belongings due to a lack of transportation options amidst the curfew imposed in the region. The authorities have intensified their search operations to apprehend more individuals involved in the riots. So far, 30 people have been arrested in connection with the violence, and efforts to detain others are ongoing.
The Uttarakhand Police have seized weapons from those arrested in connection with the violence. While the curfew has been relaxed in many parts of Haldwani, the Banbhoolpoora area remains under strict restrictions.
The district administration has sealed all entry and exit points of Banbhoolpoora to prevent further unrest and potential escape of rioters. The decision to seal the area was made by the police to prevent individuals involved in the violence from fleeing.
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A delegation from Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind visited Haldwani and met with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate to discuss their concerns. They emphasized the need for peace in the area and expressed dissatisfaction with the hasty demolition of the mosque and madrasa, which they believe escalated tensions and led to violence.
In response to the situation, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced plans to construct a police station at the site where the mosque and madrasa were demolished.
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