Haldwani: Unrest broke out in Ujala Nagar after a false claim about a piece of meat near a school gate sparked tension and violence. Hindu groups gathered at the spot on Sunday night after a rumour spread that the meat was beef. Police later confirmed through CCTV footage that a dog had carried the meat, and the claim had no basis.
Station House Officer Sunil Joshi said a small piece of meat was found close to the school gate. He said the rumour created fear among some groups and drew activists to the area. Police attempted to share accurate details, but the crowd grew aggressive. Some individuals threw stones at nearby shops and threatened residents.
SP City Manoj Kathiyal said the police struggled to control the situation. Officers used mild force to disperse the crowd and stop further damage. He said two FIRs have been filed. One FIR lists 40 to 50 unidentified people for rioting and stone pelting. The second FIR, filed by a Hindu group leader, concerns the alleged discovery of remains of a prohibited animal. A forensic team has collected samples.
Residents of the Muslim community said they feel unsafe during such episodes. Mohammad Rizwan said every rumour becomes a threat for them. He said these events place the entire community under suspicion. Asma Bano said the stone pelting frightened people in the locality. She said some individuals refused to calm down even after clarification from the police.
Security in the area has been increased. Officers are recording statements and monitoring the locality. Kathiyal said the priority is the safety of all residents. He said the pattern of unrest linked to unverified claims harms peace. Sociologist Dr Anjum Farooqi said the misuse of rumours deepens division. He urged communities to avoid spreading unverified information.
