The MCD conducted a bulldozer operation on Wednesday morning to remove illegal structures around the Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque located at Turkman Gate, Delhi. The encroachment was dismantled with the help of 17 bulldozers on the site.
As soon as the operation began, local residents voiced their opposition. The crowd quickly became agitated and started pelting stones at the police, escalating the tension in the area. Additional police forces were deployed to manage the situation.
The Joint Commissioner of Police, Central Range, Madhur Verma, stated that under the directives of the Delhi High Court, the MCD conducted a demolition operation at the encroached areas around Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque near Ramleela Maidan, Turkman Gate, early on 7th January. Mischief-makers attempted to disrupt the situation by stone-pelting during the demolition.
Verma also mentioned that a limited and balanced use of force was employed to control the situation promptly and restore normalcy without escalating tension. Several earthmover machines were also spotted on site before the demolition.
According to MCD officials, a clinic and a banquet hall adjacent to the mosque were declared illegal. The decision to remove these constructions was made following a survey conducted in the Ramleela Maidan area. The administration had already given people time to clear the encroachments.
As the municipal corporation's 17 bulldozers arrived late at night, stone-pelting began. The police deployed on-site released tear gas shells and chased the crowd away. Police have blocked access to surrounding areas.
The demolition operation has also impacted the area's traffic system. Restrictions have been placed on vehicle movement near JLN Marg, Ajmeri Gate, Minto Road, and Delhi Gate. Traffic police have advised travelers to seek alternative routes.
Currently, the situation is reported to be under control at the site, though heavy police presence ensures the demolition continues smoothly.
Which Roads Will Remain Completely Closed...
According to traffic police, the route from Kamla Market roundabout to the front of Hamdard Building on Asaf Ali Road will remain closed. Similarly, vehicles heading from Kamla Market roundabout to JLN Road and from Delhi Gate to JLN Road will be stopped. The route from Mirdard Chowk to Guru Nanak Chowk on Maharaja Ranjit Singh Road will also remain closed until the operation concludes.
Preparations Made by Delhi Police?
IPS Madhur Verma explained that Delhi Police made comprehensive arrangements for maintaining law and order. The entire area was meticulously divided into 9 zones, with each zone monitored by an officer of Additional DCP level. Adequate police deployment was ensured at all sensitive locations.
Coordination meetings were held with members of the Aman Committee and other locals to maintain peace before the encroachment removal operation. All potential measures were discussed thoroughly. Delhi Police is committed to maintaining law and order while sensitively enforcing all judicial directions.
