Five individuals have been apprehended, and nineteen others have been implicated in three FIRs related to the violence that erupted on February 8 in Haldwani’s Banbhoolpura area following an anti-encroachment operation. The clashes resulted in the deaths of five individuals, prompting the imposition of a curfew in the vicinity. Despite the initial unrest, authorities emphasized that the situation is now under control, with no fresh outbreaks of violence reported. Additional Director General of Police (ADG) Law & Order AP Anshuman stated, “The situation in Haldwani is normal, curfew has been lifted. Curfew continues in Banbhoolpura. Three FIRs have been registered and five people have been arrested.” The police are meticulously examining CCTV footage, with several arrests already made, and efforts underway to identify additional troublemakers.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nainital PN Meena confirmed the registration of three cases involving nineteen named individuals and an additional 5,000 unidentified persons. Security measures have been intensified in the affected zones following the clashes that ensued during the anti-encroachment drive. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami condemned the violence and visited Haldwani to assess the situation. He expressed concern for the injured, including police personnel and journalists, and assured that legal action would be taken against those responsible. Chief Secretary Radha Raturi also visited the affected areas, instructing officials to prioritize public safety and maintain law and order. The state government issued a high alert, leading to the suspension of internet services and the closure of educational institutions. According to State ADG Law & Order AP Anshuman, over a hundred policemen sustained injuries during the unrest, while Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh reported two fatalities.