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The heat is on for Abdul Malik, the key accused in the Haldwani violence that rocked the town last week. 

 

On Wednesday, a non-bailable warrant was issued against him, authorising police to arrest him and even attach his property if necessary. 

 

Malik, who owned the demolished madrasa and fiercely opposed its removal, remains at large.

 

Meanwhile, Malik's wife Safia took the fight to the Uttarakhand High Court, filing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a halt to further demolitions.

 

Lawyer Salman Khurshid argued that the process wasn't followed properly, claiming Malik wasn't given the mandated 15 days to respond to the demolition notice. He stressed that even though the structures are gone, due process was violated.

 

The Court sought a response from the state government and adjourned the hearing till May. 

 

While Malik evades capture, his wife attempts to legally overturn the demolition drive that sparked chaos, leaving six dead and over 100 injured.

 

With tensions simmering, security in Banbhoolpura, under curfew since February 8th, remains high. 

 

Additionally, Kumaon Commissioner Dipak Rawat has begun a magisterial inquiry into the violence. He's inviting public statements and evidence within a week, aiming to submit his report in 15 days.