Not less than four people have died in clashes in a northern state of India after the Indian authorities demolished a mosque, claiming it was built illegally.
Violence erupted in Haldwani town in Uttarakhand during what police described as an "anti-encroachment drive."
Officials stated the drive aimed to remove unauthorized constructions, including the mosque and an adjacent religious school.
However, Muslim worshippers argue they've been unfairly singled out.
During the clashes on Thursday evening, hundreds of protesters and police officers sustained injuries. A video that appears to protesters setting vehicles on fire and hurling stones while police responded with tear gas was seen circulating online.
A curfew has been imposed, and authorities issued "shoot at sight" orders to restore order.
The said incident was said to occurred in Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani. The district saw protests last January after thousands, mainly Muslims, received eviction notices alleging illegal occupation of land owned by the Indian Railways. The Indian supreme Court has halted the demolition.
However, locals refute this, asserting the mosque was razed before the court issued a final ruling.
Tensions over mosque demolitions have escalated recently.
Muslim groups feel unfairly targeted under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist government, accusing it of religious polarization ahead of upcoming general elections. The government has come forward to denies these claims.
The situation in Haldwani remained tense on Friday with internet services suspended and a complete shutdown ordered. Schools in Banbhoolpura will remain closed, and thousands of police officers have been deployed.
Muslims in Uttarakhand reject the UCC, viewing it as an infringement on their Islamic customs.