New Delhi:
Tensions flared in central Delhi on Wednesday morning when police personnel were attacked during an anti-encroachment drive carried out by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) near Turkman Gate, close to the Faiz-e-Ilahi Masjid. The operation was undertaken following directions from the Delhi High Court to remove illegal constructions on government land.
According to officials, the land in question had been illegally encroached upon and converted into a marriage hall and multiple commercial shops, allegedly without any valid building permits or land-use approvals. The area falls under revenue land classified as public property, meant for civic and utility purposes.
Violence During Demolition
As MCD teams, accompanied by a heavy police deployment, began demolition work early Wednesday, a group of local occupants and supporters allegedly resorted to stone-pelting, targeting police personnel deployed for security.
- Several stones were hurled at police teams
- Minor injuries were reported among security personnel
- The situation was brought under control after additional forces were rushed to the spot
Senior police officials said the demolition drive was temporarily halted to prevent escalation, and CCTV footage and video evidence are being reviewed to identify those involved in the attack.
Official Statement
An MCD official stated:
“The structures were built on encroached land without approval. The action was taken strictly in compliance with the High Court’s order. Unfortunately, law enforcement was attacked while performing its duty.”
Delhi Police confirmed that cases will be registered for rioting, assault on public servants, and damage to public property.
Land Revenue and Legal Background
Revenue department records indicate that the land belongs to the Delhi government and was never allotted or leased for private construction. Officials said repeated notices had been issued earlier, but illegal commercial activity continued, prompting court intervention.
The Delhi High Court, while hearing a public interest petition, had directed the authorities to clear encroachments and restore the land to its original status, citing violations of land revenue laws and municipal regulations.
Local Reactions
Local residents expressed mixed reactions:
- Some residents claimed the demolition affected livelihoods and demanded rehabilitation or alternative arrangements.
- Others supported the action, stating that illegal constructions had caused congestion, sanitation issues, and traffic problems in the densely populated area.
Community leaders appealed for calm and urged authorities to maintain dialogue to avoid further clashes.
Political Reactions
The incident triggered sharp political responses:
- BJP leaders in Delhi backed the MCD action, saying court orders must be enforced without fear or favour, and condemned the attack on police as “unacceptable and criminal.”
- AAP leaders, while condemning violence, urged authorities to ensure humanitarian considerations and proper notice before demolitions, stressing that livelihoods should not be destroyed without due process.
- Opposition leaders demanded a time-bound investigation into the police attack and strict punishment for those responsible.
Current Situation
Heavy police deployment continues in and around Turkman Gate to prevent further unrest. Authorities said the anti-encroachment drive will resume after a security review, and no illegal structure will be allowed to remain on public land.
Officials reiterated that the rule of law will prevail, and any attempt to obstruct court-mandated action through violence will be dealt with firmly.
