Pushkar Dhami Appeals For Peace As Violence Grips Uttarakhand's Haldwani

Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami appealed for peace after an anti-encroachment drive in Uttarakhand's Haldwani resulted in violent clashes on Thursday. Rioters threw stones at police officials and set vehicles on fire. Additional forces have been deployed in Haldwani to control the situation. Talking to ANI, Pushkar Dhami said, "In Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani, a team from the administration had gone for an anti-encroachment drive, following Court's order. Anti-social elements there entered into a brawl with the Police. A few Police personnel and administrative officials sustained injuries. Additional companies of Police and Central Forces are being sent there. We have appealed to everyone to maintain peace. Curfew is in place. Strict action will be taken against rioters and encroachers who committed arson."