New Delhi: High drama unfolded in the early hours of Wednesday in Old Delhi’s Turkman Gate area as a large-scale demolition drive by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) triggered violent protests. The situation turned tense after miscreants pelted stones at police personnel, forcing authorities to use tear gas to bring the situation under control.
The operation began around 1 am near the Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque, following directions issued by the Delhi High Court. Officials deployed 17 bulldozers to remove illegal encroachments spread across 38,940 square feet of land.
Stone Pelting During Demolition Drive
As MCD teams started clearing the encroachments, groups of protesters attempted to stop the operation. Some people crossed police barricades and attacked security personnel with stones. In response, the police used tear gas shells to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation.
During the clashes, five police officers sustained minor injuries. Senior officials said the situation came under control after additional forces reached the spot.
High Court Orders Behind the Action
The demolition followed Delhi High Court orders issued in November last year. The court directed authorities to remove illegal structures near the mosque and the crematorium located next to Ramlila Maidan.
According to officials, the encroachments included roads, footpaths, a community hall, and a private diagnostic centre. The mosque committee had approached the High Court seeking relief. However, the court refused to grant a stay, clearing the way for the demolition.
Heavy Police Deployment, Area Divided Into Zones
To maintain law and order, the administration divided the area into nine security zones. A heavy police force remained deployed throughout the operation. Joint Commissioner of Police Madhur Verma said authorities would identify the accused using CCTV footage.
“Strict legal action will follow once we identify those involved in stone pelting,” he said.
Meanwhile, the mosque committee claimed that the land belongs to the Waqf Board and argued that it pays lease charges for the property.
Traffic Restrictions in Old Delhi
Following the demolition drive, traffic police imposed restrictions across Old Delhi. Motorists faced major inconvenience on JLN Marg, Ajmeri Gate, Minto Road, and Delhi Gate.
Officials also closed roads connecting Kamala Market to Asaf Ali Road temporarily. Police issued a traffic advisory urging commuters to avoid the area unless necessary.
Situation Remains Tense
Although authorities restored control, tension continues to prevail in the Turkman Gate area. Police remain on high alert as the demolition drive proceeds under tight security.
The incident once again highlights the challenges authorities face while implementing court-ordered anti-encroachment drives in densely populated areas of the national capital.
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