Delhi Police have taken five individuals into custody following a violent clash that broke out during a demolition drive conducted by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) in the capital's Turkman Gate area. The incident occurred late on Tuesday night near the Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid, where authorities were clearing illegal encroachments as per a court order.
Demolition Drive Sparks Violence
The situation turned tense when some people allegedly began pelting stones and glass bottles at the police force and officials present at the site. At least five police personnel sustained injuries in the attack. Sources indicate that Samajwadi Party MP Mohibbullah Nadvi was present in the area when the violence erupted. The demolition was targeting illegal commercial establishments on land adjoining the mosque and a nearby graveyard, following a directive from the High Court.
Official Statements and Legal Action
Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood addressed the incident on Wednesday, labeling the stone-pelting as "unfortunate" and asserting that such violence would not be tolerated. He clarified that the action was strictly against illegal structures and not the mosque itself. "I want to clearly state that Faiz-e-Elahi mosque is completely safe. The action is limited only to those illegal commercial establishments that fall within the scope of the court's orders," Sood stated.
The Minister accused certain "criminal and mischievous elements" of instigating the demonstrations and violence. He warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone taking the law into their own hands and appealed for public cooperation in maintaining communal harmony. An FIR has been registered in connection with the incident.
Scope of the Demolition and Aftermath
MCD Deputy Commissioner Vivek Kumar provided details of the operation, confirming that no damage was caused to the mosque during the drive. He stated that the demolition, which continued through the night, cleared approximately 36,000 square feet of encroached area. The structures removed included:
- A diagnostic centre
- A marriage hall
- Two two-storey boundary walls
Kumar added that debris sufficient to fill about 200 to 250 vehicles remains at the site and will be cleared in the ongoing clean-up operation. The police investigation into the stone-pelting incident is ongoing, with the five detained individuals being questioned.
