New Delhi, An anti-encroachment drive carried out by civic authorities near the Faiz Elahi Mosque in the Turkman Gate area of central Delhi turned violent on Wednesday, resulting in injuries to several police personnel and temporary unrest in the locality.
The operation was conducted to remove alleged illegal structures from land near the mosque and an adjoining graveyard. Officials clarified that the mosque itself was not targeted and remained untouched during the drive, which was carried out following legal directions.
Tensions escalated when demolition teams reached the site with heavy machinery. A large crowd gathered to oppose the action, and clashes broke out between some local residents and security personnel. During the confrontation, stones were allegedly thrown, injuring police officers deployed at the site.
Police responded by using controlled force, including tear gas, to disperse the crowd and restore order. Additional forces were rushed to the area to prevent further escalation. The injured police personnel were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Senior officials said adequate security arrangements had been made in advance, but resistance from a section of the crowd led to the violence. The situation was later brought under control, and normal movement in the area gradually resumed.
Police have begun reviewing video footage and eyewitness accounts to identify those involved in the incident. Authorities said legal action would be taken against individuals found responsible for the violence.
The incident highlights the difficulties faced by civic bodies during anti-encroachment drives in densely populated and sensitive areas. Officials have appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with lawful civic operations.
