‘The 1am operation’: Tear gas, 32 JCBs, RAF deployed as MCD demolishes illegal encroachments near Delhi’s Faiz-e-Elahi mosque | Delhi News

NEW DELHI: At around 1 am on Wednesday, a demolition drive by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) near Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque in Turkman Gate, close to Ramlila Maidan, turned tense as some individuals resorted to stone-pelting, injuring multiple police personnel.Delhi Police have registered an FIR against unknown persons in connection with the incident, and approximately 10 people have been detained for questioning. Officials said four to five suspects have already been identified, with CCTV and body-camera footage being analysed to initiate further legal action.

A small group of individuals attempted to disrupt the drive, prompting officers to respond with measured and minimal force, including controlled use of teargas to disperse the crowd. The confrontation resulted in minor injuries to five police officials, who were promptly treated.The demolition targeted illegal constructions, including a dispensary and a community hall adjoining the mosque, which the Delhi High Court had declared unauthorised.Deputy commissioner of police (central) Nidhin Valsan added, “The action is still ongoing. We deployed our staff for security. Four to five officers suffered minor injuries.

As soon as we get the CCTV camera footage, ground footage, and body camera footage, we will identify the miscreants and take legal action.”Deputy commissioner Vivek Agarwal of the city SP Zone said the operation covered approximately 36,400 square feet. “Senior police officers were present throughout the night, and an adequate police force was provided. The land belonging to the mosque remained unaffected. There was an incident of stone-pelting at night, but our teams were fully prepared.

No member of the demolition staff was harmed. We used 32 JCBs, four excavators, pneumatic hammers, and several trucks to carry out the operation,” he added.The drive commenced shortly after midnight, with around 17 bulldozers, along with excavators and other heavy machinery, pressed into service. Authorities had undertaken extensive planning in advance, dividing the locality into multiple zones under the supervision of senior officers.

Rapid Action Force personnel were stationed at key points, while additional police teams were deployed to ensure law and order.Traffic authorities issued advisories ahead of the operation, warning commuters of potential congestion around Ramlila Maidan and adjoining roads, while traffic diversions were implemented to ensure smooth movement.Delhi Police emphasised that the situation in Turkman Gate remains under control and reiterated their commitment to implementing judicial directives professionally and sensitively while ensuring the safety of personnel and residents.