Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has responded to the violence in Haldwani’s Banbhoolpura area during an anti-encroachment drive, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to upholding law and order.
He addressed the Haldwani violence, condemning the attacks on administration officials during the anti-encroachment drive. He highlighted that the law would take strict action against those involved in violence and assured support for the injured individuals.
The violence erupted following an anti-encroachment drive in Banbhoolpura, where four people lost their lives, and over 100 police personnel sustained injuries. The drive aimed to address illegal encroachments, including demolishing structures built on government land.
#WATCH | Haldwani violence | DM Nainital, Vandana Singh says, "The police station has been completely damaged by the mob…This is an unfortunate incident. The accused will be identified and strict action will be taken. This (incident) was not communal. I request everybody to not… pic.twitter.com/RPPSeA6Mgx
— ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024
State Government’s Response and High Alert
In response to the unrest, the Uttarakhand government has put the state on high alert, deploying additional security measures to maintain peace and order. Internet services were suspended, and schools and colleges were closed as precautionary measures to prevent further escalation of violence.
The CM said the authorities would continue their anti-encroachment drives and come down heavily against miscreants who defied the government and public property.
He said via ANI: ”Anti-encroachment drive has been going on as per the court’s direction…administration had notified people beforehand… administration were attacked with petrol bombs, stones, there was arson also. Some people tried to create tension in Uttarakhand. The law will take strict action against it. Video footage of the whole incident is being retrieved, and those who damaged govt and public property, will be made to pay for it…we are with the people who got injured…”
#WATCH | On Haldwani violence, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami says, Anti-encroachment drive has been going on as per the court's direction…administration had notified people beforehand… administration were attacked with petrol bombs, stones, there was arson also. Some… pic.twitter.com/dXrLsv2kmn
— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 9, 2024
District Magistrate’s Statement and Investigation Updates
Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh provided updates on the investigation, emphasizing that the incident was not communal. She assured that the authorities were working to identify the perpetrators and would take strict action against them. The district administration continues to assess the situation and ensure the safety of residents.
As the situation unfolds, authorities closely monitor developments in Haldwani to restore normalcy and address the aftermath of the violent clashes. Stay tuned for further updates on the Haldwani violence incident.
