Following the recent outbreak of violence in the Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani, Uttarakhand Police has taken decisive action, registering a case against 19 named individuals and 5,000 unidentified suspects, as revealed by SSP Nainital Prahalad Narayan Meena in a media briefing on Saturday. The aftermath of the riots has prompted heightened security measures in the region, with significant deployments of local police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to maintain order.
Providing updates on the situation, SSP Meena assured the public that law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing the identification and apprehension of miscreants involved in the violence. While curfew restrictions have been lifted from outer areas of Haldwani, Banbhoolpura remains under curfew as authorities work to restore calm and security.
In response to the tragic events, Chief Secretary Radha Raturi and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the affected areas to assess the situation firsthand. Condemning the violence, CM Dhami emphasized that such acts of lawlessness undermine the sanctity of Uttarakhand, known as ‘Dev Bhoomi,’ and vowed to uphold the rule of law.
Describing the sequence of events that led to the unrest, CM Dhami reiterated that the anti-encroachment drive was conducted in compliance with court directives. However, the situation escalated when violent elements attacked law enforcement personnel, including women officers, with petrol bombs and stones. He denounced the assault on journalists and the destruction of public property, promising accountability through thorough investigation and legal action.
With an emphasis on restoring peace and order, CM Dhami underscored the retrieval of video footage to identify perpetrators and hold them accountable for their actions. He assured support for the injured and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring justice for all affected parties.
In response to the escalating tensions, the state government issued a high alert across Uttarakhand, intensifying security measures in Banbhoolpura and beyond. Additionally, internet services were suspended, and educational institutions were ordered to remain closed to prevent further escalation of violence.
The incidents in Haldwani serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of robust law enforcement measures to safeguard communities. As investigations continue and efforts to restore normalcy unfold, the state government remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
As Uttarakhand grapples with the aftermath of the riots, collective efforts are imperative to foster reconciliation, address grievances, and prevent the recurrence of such tragic events. In the spirit of unity and resilience, the people of Uttarakhand stand united in their resolve to overcome challenges and rebuild trust and harmony in their communities.
