Haldwani: The Supreme Court is expected to announce its verdict on December 10 in the Banbhulpura railway land encroachment case. The case involves nearly 30 hectares of railway land in Haldwani, which has been under dispute for years.

Ahead of the verdict, the Nainital administration and police have intensified preparations to ensure peace in the region.

Police on alert

Nainital SSP Manjunath TC has directed the entire force to remain on high alert. Security forces will be deployed in Banbhulpura in phases on December 8, 9, and 10. The police have also warned that strict action will be taken against anyone trying to disturb law and order.

Monitoring social media

The police are closely monitoring social media platforms. Any posts that attempt to disrupt the atmosphere or spread rumors will be dealt with firmly. The administration has also planned meetings with local residents to seek their cooperation in maintaining peace during this sensitive period.

Background of the case

In 2022, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Nainital High Court regarding alleged illegal encroachment on railway land in Banbhulpura. In 2023, the High Court ordered the removal of the encroachment. Following this, the railway administration, with the help of the district administration, attempted to clear the land.

However, the move faced strong opposition from local residents, leading to protests. The matter was then taken to the Supreme Court, which postponed the eviction and began hearing the case. Since then, the issue has remained pending in the apex court.

Preparations for verdict day

Earlier, there were speculations that the Supreme Court might deliver its decision on December 2, and the administration had made full preparations. But the hearing was postponed to December 10. Now, once again, the police and administration are on full alert.

District police, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), fire units, and tear gas teams will be deployed with modern equipment. The administration has assured that all necessary steps will be taken to maintain peace and order in Banbhulpura during and after the verdict.

Thousands of people are living on encroached land

The Banbhulpura railway land encroachment case in Haldwani involves nearly 30 hectares of land, where around 4,000 families and more than 20,000 people are said to be living. If the Supreme Court orders removal, thousands of residents will be directly affected, making it one of Uttarakhand’s largest encroachment disputes with serious social and administrative challenges.

Crucial for both the railway administration and local residents

The upcoming verdict is expected to be crucial for both the railway administration and local residents. While the authorities are preparing for strict enforcement, they are also urging cooperation from the public to avoid unrest. The decision on December 10 will mark an important step in resolving the long-standing Banbhulpura encroachment case.