New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) Tensions flared in parts of Old Delhi in the early hours of Wednesday when a pre-dawn demolition operation aimed at clearing alleged illegal encroachments near a mosque led to protests, stone pelting, and police intervention, officials reported.

The situation was eventually stabilized with the deployment of tear gas and additional law enforcement personnel.

This incident unfolded near the Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque in the Turkman Gate vicinity, adjacent to Ramlila Ground, where authorities initiated a late-night anti-encroachment drive. As stated by officials of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the operation aimed to eliminate unauthorized structures from land next to the mosque and surrounding areas, as directed by the Delhi High Court.

The demolition commenced in the early morning hours, accompanied by a significant presence of civic staff and police. Reports indicated that between 10 and 17 bulldozers were utilized during the operation, part of the MCD’s sustained efforts to eradicate encroachments citywide.

As the demolition activities proceeded, a large gathering of local residents assembled outside the mosque, chanting slogans and protesting against the actions taken.

The atmosphere became charged when some protesters allegedly tried to breach police barricades, resulting in stone pelting directed at security forces. The police responded with tear gas shells to disperse the crowd and control the unrest.

Senior police officials affirmed that sufficient personnel had been stationed in and around the area in anticipation of potential resistance, and the situation was promptly managed. Fortunately, no significant injuries were reported, although security measures were heightened as a precaution.

The demolition efforts continued despite ongoing legal challenges concerning the site.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Delhi High Court issued a notice regarding a petition from the managing committee of Masjid Syed Elahi, which contested the MCD’s decision to remove what they claimed were illegal encroachments from land adjacent to the mosque and a nearby graveyard at Ramlila Maidan. Civic authorities, however, asserted that their actions were consistent with court mandates regarding unauthorized constructions.

Local residents expressed strong objections to the demolition, contending that it was executed without proper consultation and would negatively impact the community. Civic officials reiterated that the operation was lawful and intended to reclaim public land.