Investigation Launched Following Viral Video Showing Cash Distribution in Haldwani’s Banbhulpura Area
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand police have initiated an inquiry into the involvement of a Hyderabad-based NGO, Hyderabad Youth Courage, after a video surfaced allegedly depicting cash being distributed to individuals in the violence-affected regions of Haldwani. The man in question, identified as Salman Khan, purportedly connected to the NGO, is under scrutiny as authorities delve into the circumstances surrounding the distribution of funds.
Senior police officials revealed that Nainital Senior Superintendent of Police Prahlad Narain Meena stated, “Details pertaining to Salman have been requested, including documents of the NGO, its funding sources, ITRs, and the extent of monetary distribution in the Banbhulpura area.” The bank account details and PAN numbers of the NGO have been shared with enforcement agencies, including the Income Tax department, for further investigation.
The unrest in the Banbhulpura area erupted when authorities were engaged in demolishing an illegal madrassa, resulting in the loss of four lives and injuries to 250 policemen. In connection with the violence that transpired on February 8, the police have apprehended 74 individuals thus far.
“Two days ago, a video circulated on social media depicting a young man distributing cash to residents of the Banbhulpura area, particularly to the relatives of the deceased whom he referred to as martyrs,” stated Nainital police in a statement. The video also purportedly showed substantial sums of money being handed out to other affected individuals.
While the authenticity of the video remains unverified independently, Salman, a resident of Hyderabad, was detained at the Banbhulpura police station for questioning on Wednesday. Following several hours of interrogation, Salman was released on Thursday, with a requirement to be available for further investigation upon police summons.
Authorities have heightened scrutiny on Salman’s activities, including efforts to ascertain the amount of money transported to Haldwani. Donors contributing to the Hyderabad Youth Courage NGO are also under investigation, with measures underway to seize the organization’s accounts.
The dissemination of the viral video prompted increased attention from law enforcement agencies, underscoring the necessity for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the cash distribution in the aftermath of the Haldwani violence.