On April 16, 2024, the Uttarakhand High Court granted bail to Abdul Malik, the prime accused in the Haldwani violence case that erupted on February 8, 2024. The court's decision came after considering the defence's argument that Malik was not present at the site during the violence, which involved stone-pelting and arson during an anti-encroachment drive. Malik had been in custody for over two years following his arrest related to the Banbhoolpura violence. The court clarified that granting bail does not equate to an acquittal, and the trial will continue based on evidence and witness testimonies. Following the incident, police filed multiple FIRs against Malik and others involved, and the case will now proceed to trial.