Clashes Erupt During Early Morning Demolition Drive in Old Delhi, Police Use Tear Gas

New Delhi: The situation worsened for some time in Turkman Gate area of ​​Old Delhi on Wednesday night. When the Municipal Corporation team arrived to remove the encroachment, some people present there started protesting. Within no time the situation became tense and stones started being thrown at the police. To keep the situation under control, the police had to resort to tear gas.

Why did the action start suddenly?

This action of the Municipal Corporation was started late in the night at around 1 o'clock. The illegal construction near Fayez-e-Ilahi Mosque was to be removed. The corporation says that this entire action is being taken as per the order of Delhi High Court, hence the time and date were already fixed.

What kind of encroachments are being removed?

According to officials, on the land where the action is being taken, there were parts of the road, footpath, parking area, a community hall and a private testing center. The Municipal Corporation has deployed about 17 bulldozers for this.

Why did people protest?

As soon as the action started, local people started gathering at the spot. Some people said that this land is connected to the mosque and the graveyard. Meanwhile, some mischievous elements joined the crowd and started pelting stones at the police.

How did the police handle the situation?

Police say that initially an attempt was made to convince people. When stone pelting did occur, limited force was used to prevent the situation from worsening. Four or five policemen have suffered minor injuries. Police are now identifying the stone throwers through CCTV and body camera footage.

What does the High Court order say?

This entire matter is related to an order of November 2025. The High Court had asked the Municipal Corporation and PWD to remove encroachment from about 38 thousand square feet of land near Ramlila Maidan. Earlier, a survey had found that many types of illegal constructions were present on the land.

What is the objection of the Mosque Committee?

The management committee of Masjid Syed Ilahi has challenged the decision of the Municipal Corporation in the court. They say that this land is Waqf property, and they pay regular rent for it. The committee claims that such cases should be decided by the Waqf Tribunal.

How were the security arrangements made in the area?

The police had already divided the area into several parts. Additional forces were deployed at every sensitive place. Before the action, talks were also held with the local people so that there was no misunderstanding.

What was the impact on traffic?

Due to the demolition drive, there was a traffic jam on the surrounding roads. Traffic was affected towards JLN Marg, Ajmeri Gate, and Delhi Gate. Many roads were temporarily closed, and people were asked to take alternative routes.

How is the situation at present?

According to the police and administration, the situation is now completely under control. The action is still ongoing, and security has been increased in the area. The police remain alert to deal with any kind of disturbance.