Haldwani Violence: ‘Chose to Proceed with Demolition Drive Due to…’ Statement from Nainital DM Vandana Singh
On February 9th, Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh addressed the media regarding the violence that erupted in Haldwani subsequent to an anti-encroachment operation. Singh clarified that the decision to proceed with the demolition was based on the absence of a legal injunction against the properties. She stated, “A lawful procedure to clear encroachments is underway at various sites, and it was executed here as well.” Singh emphasized that the operation was conducted peacefully, with no intention to incite harm to individuals or property. Despite the orderly process, Singh lamented that within half an hour, a large mob attacked the municipal cooperation team.
“…The property in question consists of two structures and is devoid of any registration as a religious facility or formal recognition as such. While some refer to it as a Madrasa,” she elaborated. During the press conference, she underscored that the action against encroachment was carried out in compliance with the High Court’s directive. She emphasized, “…Following the HC’s mandate, measures were taken against encroachments across various locations in Haldwani… All parties were duly served notices and provided with a hearing window.” She further clarified, “Some petitioned the HC, some were granted extensions, while others did not receive such allowances. In instances where extensions were not granted, the Public Works Department and Municipal Corporation executed demolition drives. This was not an isolated event and did not target specific properties.”
“…As per current official reports, there have been two fatalities,” she stated. However, earlier, State ADG Law & Order AP Anshuman mentioned that four individuals had succumbed to injuries in the violence-stricken area of Banbhoolpura, with over 100 policemen sustaining injuries,” as relayed by news agency ANI.
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She recounted that the demolition operation commenced without incident, and despite meticulous execution, a sizable mob launched an assault on the municipal cooperation team within thirty minutes. Subsequently, another group wielding petrol bombs arrived, sparking an unforeseen confrontation. “The demolition initiative commenced peacefully, with security deployed for precautionary measures… Our Municipal Corporation team faced a barrage of stones… There was prior planning to target the forces on the day of the demolition… The initial stone-throwing mob was dispersed, but a subsequent group armed with petrol bombs appeared. This attack was unprovoked, and our team refrained from resorting to any forceful measures…”
Recalling the traumatic events, Singh described how each police station was besieged by a mob, with those inside subjected to a barrage of stones and petrol bombs, while vehicles parked outside were engulfed in flames. “Subsequently, the mob surrounded the police station, preventing anyone inside from leaving. They initiated their assault with stones and then escalated to petrol bombs. Meanwhile, vehicles parked nearby were set ablaze, leading to suffocating smoke conditions… Tear gas and water cannons were employed solely to protect the police station from further damage,” she explained. Terming the incident regrettable, Singh assured that the perpetrators would be identified and dealt with severely. “The police station bore the brunt of the mob’s fury… This is indeed a deplorable occurrence. The culprits will be brought to justice. It’s crucial to refrain from communalizing or sensationalizing this event. No particular community was targeted… It was a brazen attempt to challenge the authority of the state machinery, the government, and the law enforcement apparatus… Further updates will be provided later this evening,” she concluded.
