The administration claims to be conducting a drive against all encroachment. But on the ground, it is chiefly Muslim sites that have been razed to rubble.
Curfew in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani, lifted after 12 days following clashes over a demolished madrasa. The violence on February 8 led to six deaths and over 100 injuries. The administration intermittently relaxed curfew during this period. Sixty-eight arrests were made, and properties attached in connection with the unrest.
For months, Hindutva organisations have spearheaded a campaign of hate against Uttarakhand’s Muslims residents that has been amplified by the chief minister.