Cash Distribution in Haldwani Under Scrutiny After Video Surfaces Online
Following a video showing a man from Hyderabad distributing cash, ostensibly to Muslim families affected during the violence in Haldwani where five people died, the Nainital police have started an investigation into the matter along with requesting agencies to seize the bank accounts concerned.
According to police officials, the person is part of an NGO called Hyderabad Youth Courage.
In his latest video, he is seen sitting in a car, filling a bag with bundles of cash. He is later seen distributing it to several women. “Haldwani ke mazloom musalmano ki Allah ke taraf se madad ki gayi (the oppressed Muslims of Haldwani were helped on behalf of Allah),” reads the video caption.
The man has posted several other videos, claiming to help families “destroyed” during the Halwani violence. In one video, also shared as an Instagram story, he provided a QR code for people to donate money, which would later be used to financially aid those who lost their family members or need medical assistance. The videos are also shared on social media pages of Hyderabad Youth Courage.
“A video is being circulated on social media in which a young man is distributing money among the people in Banbhoolpura area. Police are investigating in this regard. Information related to the NGO’s account number, registration number, PAN number has also been given to the Income Tax Department and other agencies, by which necessary action is being taken. Those donating to Hyderabad Youth Courage NGO are also being identified,” said Nainital police in a statement.
“Action is being taken to seize the account and registration number of the said NGO. Action will be taken against those who take money illegally, support the rioters, distort facts and post misleading facts on social media. Therefore, everyone is requested not to donate in any way to such NGOs,” it added.
Police said they have written to the Airport Authority of India asking how the man managed to come with so much cash.
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.
