A planned demolition operation by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) descended into chaos and violence in the early hours of Wednesday near the historic Turkman Gate area. The incident, which occurred close to Ramlila Maidan, saw five police personnel sustain minor injuries after a group of individuals resorted to stone-pelting.
Midnight Operation and Violent Confrontation
The drive, targeting illegal constructions adjoining the Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque, commenced shortly after midnight. Authorities had deployed a significant force, including 17 bulldozers (JCBs), four excavators, and multiple trucks, to clear unauthorized structures across approximately 36,400 square feet. Senior police officers and Rapid Action Force personnel were stationed on-site to oversee security.
However, the situation turned tense around 1 am when a small group attempted to disrupt the proceedings. In response to the stone-pelting, police used controlled teargas and minimal force to disperse the crowd. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Nidhin Valsan confirmed that four to five officers were injured and received prompt treatment. No demolition staff were harmed.
Legal Backing and Police Response
The demolition action had judicial sanction, with the Delhi High Court having declared the targeted structures—a dispensary and a community hall—as unauthorized. Officials emphasized that the mosque's land itself remained untouched. Following the violence, Delhi Police registered an FIR against unknown persons and detained approximately 10 individuals for questioning.
"We deployed our staff for security. As soon as we get the CCTV camera footage, ground footage, and body camera footage, we will identify the miscreants and take legal action," stated DCP Valsan. Authorities confirmed that four to five suspects have already been identified through video analysis.
Extensive Planning and Area Control
The operation was the result of meticulous planning. The locality was divided into multiple zones under senior officers' supervision. To manage public movement, traffic advisories and diversions were implemented around Ramlila Maidan and adjoining roads to prevent congestion.
Deputy Commissioner Vivek Agarwal of the city SP Zone detailed the scale, noting the use of 32 JCBs and pneumatic hammers. He assured that the police were fully prepared for any unrest. Delhi Police maintain that the situation in Turkman Gate is now under control and reaffirmed their commitment to executing court orders professionally while ensuring public and personnel safety.
