Haldwani: Violence erupted in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura area on February 8 during an anti-encroachment drive, resulting in the tragic death of four individuals and injuries to over 100 police personnel, confirmed senior officials.
State ADG Law & Order AP Anshuman stated, "Four fatalities occurred in the violence-stricken Banbhoolpura, with over 100 policemen sustaining injuries." In response to the unrest, the district administration took immediate measures by suspending internet services and mandating the closure of all educational institutions.
The Nainital District Administration announced, "Internet services have been suspended following the violence in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani, where four casualties and numerous police injuries have been reported. Additionally, all schools and colleges are ordered to remain closed." The Uttarakhand Government has issued a high alert across the state as a precautionary measure post the violent incident.
Earlier, upon the outbreak of violence during the anti-encroachment drive on February 8, four paramilitary companies were swiftly deployed to Haldwani in Nainital district, as per reports.
Uttarakhand Police disclosed that two companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) from Udham Singh Nagar also arrived in Haldwani to assist in managing the situation.
Inspector General Nilesh Anand Bharne, the spokesperson for Police Headquarters, informed media outlets, "Four paramilitary companies have been dispatched to the violence-affected area of Haldwani. Two PAC companies from Udham Singh Nagar have already reached the scene."
A curfew was enforced in Banbhoolpura under the directives of the District Magistrate, accompanied by a shoot-at-sight order against rioters.
Earlier in the day, Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Abhinav Kumar revealed that a request had been made to the Ministry of Home Affairs to deploy additional central paramilitary personnel.
DGP Kumar stated, "Around 4 pm today, a joint team from the district administration and police was conducting an anti-encroachment drive in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani, as per court orders. Some miscreants opposed the drive, pelting stones at officials and engaging in arson. Allegedly, they also opened fire at police using illegal firearms."
"The State Government has requested additional police forces from the MHA. As of now, four additional central force companies have been made available," Kumar continued, reassuring that the situation was under control. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami appealed to the public to maintain peace.
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