Violence Erupts During Anti-Encroachment Drive Near Delhi Mosque; FIR Registered, Several Detained

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

NEW DELHI JAN, 07:-Delhi Police on Wednesday registered an FIR and detained several people after violence broke out during an anti-encroachment drive near the Syed Faiz Elahi Mosque in the Ramlila Maidan area of the national capital.

At least five police personnel were injured after a group of people allegedly pelted stones and glass bottles at the police force while the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) was carrying out a court-mandated demolition on land adjoining the mosque and a nearby graveyard. To bring the situation under control, police fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd.

Police officials said efforts are underway to identify those involved in the stone-pelting incident.Investigators are also probing whether the violence was spontaneous or a pre-planned attempt to disrupt the demolition drive. CCTV footage from the area and videos circulating on social media are being analysed, while statements of witnesses and detained persons are being recorded.

Clarifying the situation, an MCD official stated that the Syed Faiz Elahi Mosque was not damaged during the demolition. The civic body said the drive was conducted in compliance with directions of the Delhi High Court.
As part of the operation, around 30 bulldozers and 50 dumpers were deployed to clear encroachments and remove debris. Over 300 MCD workers and officials were engaged in the drive, which continued through the night. Officials said a large encroached area was cleared, including structures declared illegal by the court.

Police said law and order arrangements remain in place in the area as a precaution. “The situation is under control and normalcy has been restored,” a senior police officer said, adding that strict legal action will be taken against those found involved in the violence.

Further investigation in the case is ongoing.