New Delhi: The national capital witnessed its first bulldozer action of 2026, drawing comparisons with Uttar Pradesh’s hardline demolition drives, as the Rekha Gupta-led Delhi government launched a major crackdown on encroachments on Delhi Development Authority (DDA) land.
The demolition drive began around 12 noon near Roshanara Club in Ali Village, under the Model Town Assembly constituency, where four bulldozers and two poclain machines moved in to clear what authorities described as long-standing illegal occupation on DDA land.
Within hours, nearly a dozen shops, several permanent structures, and over 100 jhuggis—some reportedly existing for 20 to 25 years—were reduced to rubble. A heavy police deployment remained in place throughout the operation to prevent law-and-order issues.
According to DDA officials, the land had been acquired years ago, but land mafias allegedly misled residents, illegally plotted and sold parcels to unsuspecting buyers. The matter eventually reached court, which three months ago ordered the land to be vacated.
With the lifting of GAP-3 restrictions in Delhi, enforcement agencies moved swiftly to execute the court order. However, the demolition drive is far from over. DDA teams have reportedly issued notices directing remaining occupants to vacate within 72 hours, raising the possibility of fresh bulldozer action in the coming days.
Residents expressed shock and anger, claiming they had ration cards, voter IDs, and other official documents proving long-term residence. Many alleged that no prior warning or clear notice was served before the demolition began, leaving families homeless in the peak winter season.
“Action should have been taken when construction was starting, not after people invested their life savings and built homes,” said one affected resident, standing amid debris.
As bulldozers reshaped the skyline of Ali Village, the operation has ignited a fresh political debate in Delhi, with critics questioning the timing and humanitarian impact, while authorities insist they are merely enforcing court orders on illegally occupied public land.
