Uttarakhand: Rioters can now be fined up to ₹8 lakh
Uttarakhand Governor Lieutenant General (Retired) Gurmit Singh has approved a bill that mandates full compensation from individuals who cause damage to public property during protests or riots. The legislation, known as the Uttarakhand Public and Private Property Damage Recovery Bill, was passed by the state assembly last month. It also allows for a fine of up to ₹8 lakh on rioters.
CM Dhami welcomes new law, expects deterrent effect
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has welcomed the governor's approval of the bill. He believes that its stringent provisions will act as a powerful deterrent against potential offenders who damage public property during strikes, protests or riots. "The recovery of every paisa of a damaged public property will now be made from the person responsible for it," Dhami stated, emphasizing the law's intent to prevent people from damaging public property during unrest.
'Toughest' anti-riot law: Fines and recovery costs
In addition to full compensation for damage caused to properties, rioters will be required to cover the expenses of government staff involved in riot control measures. Officials had earlier described this law as the country's "toughest" anti-riot legislation. The law was first introduced as an ordinance in March following significant damage to public property during riots in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura area.
Haldwani riots: Trigger for new legislation
The Haldwani riots erupted in February over the demolition of a madrasa and a place of worship allegedly built on the state government's 'nazul' land. Residents of Banbhoolpura flung stones at the demolition team and police officers, and they allegedly set fire to the Banbhoolpura police station and several vehicles. The violence resulted in six deaths and approximately 150 injuries.
