The Uttarakhand police have identified an NGO that allegedly collected funds for the violence in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura areas earlier this month. The police, in a statement released on social media, warned the benefactors of the non-profit that those donated are being identified.

"A video is being circulated on social media in which a young man is distributing money among the people in the Banbhoolpura area. Police are investigating in this regard. Information related to the NGO's account number, registration number, and PAN number has also been given to the Income Tax Department and other agencies, by which necessary action is being taken," the police said.

"Action will be taken against those taking money illegally, supporting rioters, distorting facts, and posting misleading facts on social media," the police added.

According to police officials, the person is part of an NGO called Hyderabad Youth Courage.

"Therefore, everyone is requested not to support such NGOs in any way," they said.

On Thursday, a fresh case of fraud and criminal conspiracy was registered against six people, including "mastermind" Abdul Malik and his wife, in connection with the Haldwani violence.

Earlier this month, the demolition of a mosque and a madrasa, which authorities said were built on government land, led to violence in which five people were killed and several – including police personnel – injured.

According to police officials, based on CCTV footage and other evidence, police teams have raided homes located around the incident and 78 people have been arrested. Illegal weapons and cartridges have also been recovered from their possession.

Four people died and 250 policemen sustained injuries after violence broke out when the authorities were demolishing an illegal madrassa.

Image source: PTI