Delhi: Demolition near Faiz-e-Elahi mosque sparks late-night unrest
A late-night anti-encroachment drive by Delhi's civic body near the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque in Turkman Gate turned tense when locals pushed back, leading to stone-pelting and minor injuries to five police officers.
The operation, which started around 1am with heavy police presence and several bulldozers, involved authorities responding with tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Why does it matter?
The MCD was clearing nearly 39,000 square feet of land—beyond the mosque's approved area—following a court order.
This included removing commercial establishments, including a diagnostic center and a marriage hall, and community spaces.
Officials say the mosque itself wasn't touched and extra security was brought in to avoid bigger clashes.
Police have detained several people and are reviewing CCTV footage to identify others involved.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions around public space and how authorities handle sensitive operations in busy neighborhoods.