New Delhi: Security was significantly tightened in the Turkman Gate area of Old Delhi after the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) carried out an overnight demolition drive near the Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid, following a Delhi High Court order to remove encroachments. The operation, which began shortly after midnight and continued until early morning, led to stone pelting incidents, prompting the police to use tear gas to control the situation.
According to Delhi Police officials, the demolition was conducted between 12 midnight and 7 a.m. at the request of the MCD, the land-owning agency. Heavy police deployment, including district police, zone forces and paramilitary personnel, was mobilised to maintain law and order during the operation.
Speaking to the media, DCP (North) Nidhin Valsan said traffic restrictions imposed during the operation were expected to be lifted, subject to a review of ground conditions. “Our primary focus was law and order. Five police personnel sustained minor injuries during stone pelting. Legal action will be taken after a detailed assessment,” he said.
Police confirmed that tear gas was used after stones were allegedly thrown at security personnel during the demolition. However, no detentions were made overnight as authorities prioritised crowd control and safety.
Senior officers said the area was kept under strict surveillance using drones, and a prior survey and census of the locality had been conducted. Police also engaged with local community leaders in advance to explain the legal basis of the action and build confidence among residents.
The MCD stated that the demolition followed multiple hearings and a final High Court order passed on December 22, after occupants failed to produce valid documents proving ownership of the encroached land. MCD DC Vivek Agarwal said approximately 36,000 square feet of encroached land was identified, with nearly 85% of the demolition work completed overnight using 32 JCBs, four poclain machines, pneumatic hammers and over 10 trucks.
Authorities clarified that land belonging to the mosque remains unaffected, and the action was limited strictly to encroached areas lacking legal documentation. Further demolition may resume once debris is cleared and machinery access is restored.
Police said prohibitory orders under Section 144 remain in force, and the area continues to be closely monitored to prevent any fresh disturbances.
