Turkman Gate Demolition Drive: High Court Orders Clearing of Encroachments Amid Protests
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In a tense situation that unfolded in old Delhi on Wednesday, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and law enforcement agencies carried out an anti-encroachment drive near a historic mosque at Turkman Gate. The operation, which began at 1:30 am, prompted protests from local residents, with some engaging in stone pelting. Authorities swiftly intervened, and at least five police personnel were injured in the process. The MCD, backed by heavy police deployment, aimed to clear alleged encroachments near Masjid Syed Elahi, also known as Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid, near Ramlila Maidan. The move was prompted by a High Court order on November 12, 2025, directing the MCD and Public Works Department (PWD) to clear 38,940 square feet of encroachments within three months. Joint Commissioner of Police (Central Range) Madhur Verma stated that the operation was carried out as per the High Court's directions, with extensive security arrangements in place. The area was divided into nine zones, each under the supervision of an officer of the rank of additional DCP. Over ten companies of Delhi Police and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) were deployed at sensitive points. The MCD had issued a notice on December 22, 2025, stating that structures beyond 0.195 acres, including the mosque, were liable to be demolished as part of the anti-encroachment drive. The move came after the High Court order, which was challenged by the mosque's managing committee. The High Court has issued a notice on the petition, directing the MCD and the Land and Development Office (L&DO) to file their responses, with the matter set for hearing on April 22. Five people were detained after a First Information Report (FIR) was registered by the Delhi Police in connection with the alleged stone pelting during the demolition drive. The FIR was lodged on charges including rioting, obstructing public servants in discharge of duty, destruction of government property, and causing hurt to public servants on duty.
