Nainital, Apr 16 The Uttarakhand High Court on Thursday granted bail to Abdul Malik, the prime accused in the February 8 Haldwani violence case, involving charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
A division bench of Justice Alok Verma and Justice Alok Mehra passed the order. The court considered the defence's submission that Malik was not present at the site during the incident.
The bench observed that the grant of bail does not equate to an acquittal. It said the trial will proceed based on evidence and witness testimonies.
Malik had been in custody for over two years following his arrest in connection with the Banbhoolpura violence. The incident occurred during an anti-encroachment drive on February 8, 2024.
Violence had erupted in the area with reports of stone-pelting and arson. Several people were injured, and public property was damaged. Police filed multiple FIRs following the clashes.
The police had registered a case against Malik and several others after an initial probe. The matter will now proceed to trial.
