New Delhi: A heavy cloud of tension hangs over Old Delhi’s historic Turkman Gate area today (January 8) after an anti-encroachment drive by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) turned violent, leaving at least five police personnel injured.
The Trigger
The MCD had deployed bulldozers to clear “illegal encroachments” situated near the century-old Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque. This action was reportedly in compliance with directives from the Delhi High Court to clear public pathways. While authorities had earlier assured that the religious structure itself would remain untouched, the demolition of adjacent properties triggered panic and anger among the locals.
The Escalation
What began as a slogan-shouting protest rapidly escalated into a physical confrontation. According to police sources, sections of the crowd resorted to stone-pelting to stop the bulldozers. In the ensuing chaos, five police officers sustained injuries and had to be rushed to the hospital. The police reportedly used mild force to disperse the mob and regain control of the streets.
Current Status
A heavy contingent of police and paramilitary forces has now been deployed in the walled city to maintain peace. The demolition drive has been temporarily halted due to the law and order situation.
The Backdrop
This incident follows a tense week in the area. On January 6, the MCD had deployed nearly 20 bulldozers for a preliminary round of action. At the time, community leaders had appealed for calm, but the renewed push today seems to have breached the fragile peace. The administration has appealed to locals not to believe in rumors regarding the safety of the mosque.
