A fact-finding team comprising civil rights groups, including the Association for Protection of Civil Rights and Karawan-e-Mohabbat, has released a preliminary report on the February 8th violence in Haldwani.
The report claims that the incident was not isolated, but rather the culmination of rising communal tensions fueled by divisive rhetoric and policies.
The report highlights the demolition of a sealed mosque and madrasa in Banbhoolpura as the immediate trigger for the violence.
This action, despite the sub judice matter, allegedly caused anger and anguish within the Muslim community. Subsequently, clashes erupted between residents and law enforcement.
The report, based on conversations with civil society members, journalists, lawyers, and affected individuals on condition of anonymity, cites witness testimonies about the alleged use of excessive force by police.
This includes indiscriminate firing and brutality during searches and detentions.
The report expresses concern about the prolonged curfew and internet shutdown, aggravating the already challenging circumstances faced by vulnerable residents, particularly women and children.
The team's efforts to directly meet and talk to affected individuals within the curfew-imposed area were unsuccessful.
While attempting to reach out to district administration officials, the report details a lack of response or an inability to meet due to stated busyness.
This interim report emphasises the need for further investigation and urges authorities to address the concerns raised regarding potential communal tensions, excessive force, and humanitarian impacts.
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