Five Police Injured After Stone Pelting During Anti-Encroachment Demolition in Delhi
Anti-Encroachment Demolition near a Delhi mosque turned violent as stone pelting erupted, tear gas was used, and five police officers were injured.
Anti-Encroachment Demolition Near Delhi Mosque Turns Tense as Stone Pelting and Tear Gas Leave Five Police Injured
Anti-Encroachment Demolition Near Delhi Mosque Turns Tense
An anti-encroachment demolition drive near a mosque in Delhi’s Turkman Gate area escalated into violence late Tuesday night, with stone pelting, sloganeering, and the use of tear gas marking the operation. At least five police personnel sustained minor injuries as authorities worked to clear illegal structures in the area.
The demolition was carried out near the Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque, close to Ramlila Ground, during the early hours of Wednesday. Officials said the late-night timing was chosen to minimize inconvenience to the public and reduce disruption in the densely populated locality.
Heavy Machinery and Security Deployment
Around 17 bulldozers were deployed for the anti-encroachment demolition, which targeted illegal structures, including a banquet hall and a dispensary. The operation was conducted under heavy security, with police barricading roads leading to the mosque and restricting movement beyond designated cordons.
Despite these measures, tensions rose as a large crowd gathered near the site. Some individuals raised slogans in protest against the demolition, while others attempted to breach police barricades, leading to confrontations with security personnel.
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Stone Pelting and Use of Tear Gas
The situation deteriorated when sections of the crowd allegedly resorted to stone pelting at police teams. According to officials, 25 to 30 people were involved in hurling stones, resulting in injuries to five police officers.
To control the escalating situation, police used tear gas shells and gas bullets, producing loud explosion-like sounds that echoed through the area. Units of the Rapid Action Force were deployed in the narrow lanes of Turkman Gate, from where stones were reportedly being thrown.
Authorities stated that the use of force was measured and aimed solely at dispersing the crowd and restoring order.
Police Statements and Legal Action
Senior police officials confirmed that the anti-encroachment demolition was conducted in accordance with court orders. They emphasized that the action was lawful and necessary to remove unauthorized structures.
An FIR has been registered, and five individuals have been identified and detained so far. Police said the process of identifying others involved in stone pelting is ongoing, using body camera footage and nearby CCTV recordings.
Officials also noted that drone cameras were deployed throughout the operation to monitor crowd movement and ensure real-time surveillance.
Outsiders Allegedly Involved
According to police authorities, a significant number of those involved in the disturbances were believed to be outsiders. Officials stated that strict action would be taken against anyone found responsible for violence, regardless of their identity or background.
“We will not spare those involved in attacking police personnel,” an official said, adding that law enforcement agencies are committed to maintaining public order.
Situation Brought Under Control
After several hours of heightened tension, the situation was eventually brought under control. The demolition drive was completed under heavy security presence, and no further incidents were reported by early morning.
Authorities maintained that the area is now calm and that additional security will remain in place to prevent any flare-ups.
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Broader Implications
The incident highlights the challenges faced during anti-encroachment demolition drives in densely populated urban areas, where legal enforcement often intersects with public sentiment and resistance. Officials reiterated that such operations are carried out only after due legal process and judicial approval.
The investigation into the violence continues, with police urging the public to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement.
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