What Led to the FIR Filed After Stone-Pelting Near Old Delhi Mosque?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) Authorities have detained ten individuals following the filing of an FIR by the Delhi Police concerning a stone-pelting episode that transpired during a demolition operation near a mosque in Old Delhi, as reported on Tuesday.
The incident took place close to the Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque in the Turkman Gate region, adjacent to Ramlila Ground, where officials initiated a late-night anti-encroachment campaign.
As stated by representatives from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the demolition was aimed at removing unauthorized structures from the land surrounding the mosque and its vicinity, following directives from the Delhi High Court issued on November 12, 2025.
The demolition process commenced in the early hours of Wednesday, supported by a substantial presence of civic staff and law enforcement. Officials confirmed that 10 to 17 bulldozers were utilized in the operation.
As the demolition progressed, a significant crowd gathered outside the mosque, voicing their dissent and protesting against the proceedings.
The atmosphere escalated when some protesters attempted to breach police barricades, resulting in stone-pelting directed at the security forces. In response, the police deployed tear gas shells to disperse the crowd and contain the escalating situation.
The FIR has been lodged under sections concerning rioting, assault on a government official, and hindrance to a public servant in executing their duties.
The police reported that they have identified 10 individuals and have taken them into custody, while efforts to locate additional suspects are ongoing.
Further updates are anticipated.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Delhi High Court had issued a notice in response to a petition from the managing committee of Masjid Syed Elahi, contesting the MCD's decision to eliminate what they referred to as alleged encroachments on the land adjacent to the mosque and a nearby graveyard at Ramlila Maidan.
However, civic authorities asserted that the actions taken were consistent with court orders regarding unauthorized constructions.