4 Killed, More Than 100 Cops Injured As Violence Erupts In Haldwani Over Mosque Demolition

The violent confrontation resulted in the death of four rioters and left over 100 police officers injured. Journalists who were on site also came under the attack.

Haldwani Violence: Violence broke out in Vanbhoolpura locality of Haldwani over the demolition of a mosque and madrasa, reportedly constructed illegally in Malik Ka Bagicha, as a mob from the Muslim community clashed with administrative and police officials. The violent confrontation resulted in the death of four rioters and left over 100 police officers injured. Journalists who were on site also came under the attack.

Internet services were suspended in Haldwani in the aftermath of the violence as authorities sought to prevent the spread of rumours and restore order.

The state has been put on high alert following the incident, with particular focus on the districts of Dehradun, Haridwar, and Udham Singh Nagar. Police forces are maintaining a vigilant presence, especially in areas considered sensitive, to avert further unrest. Station heads across these regions have been tasked with closely monitoring their respective locales, with the Dehradun senior superintendent of police (SSP) and the SP of Udham Singh Nagar amplifying their surveillance efforts to ensure public safety and security.

Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami has been monitoring the situation, and has directed increased vigilance in both rural and urban areas. A combined task force under Dehradun District Magistrate Sonika Singh and SSP Ajay Singh is also making rounds of the sensitive areas, aiming to prevent any escalation of tension.

The situation is tense, but authorities have assured the public that things are under control. The police have begun analysing various video footage from the scene to identify and take action against those responsible for instigating the violence. The administration has appealed to the public to remain calm and pay no heed to rumours.

Schools In Haldwani Closed On Friday

Harendra Kumar Mishra, the Education Officer of Haldwani, announced Thursday that all schools from classes 1 to 12 in Haldwani will be mandatorily closed on Friday (February 9, 2024) due to security reasons. All schools are strictly instructed to comply with this directive.