Bengaluru, Jan 7 (NationPress) CPI(M) leader Hannan Mollah expressed his views on the MCD-driven demolition operation near the Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid located in the Turkman Gate area, labeling 'bulldozerism' as a modern manifestation of barbarism. He asserted that this tactic is a hallmark of the BJP government at the national level.

In a conversation with IANS, Mollah pointed out that encroachment remains a widespread issue throughout India, affecting religious sites like mosques, temples, and other shrines.

“Numerous temples are constructed on encroached land. For mosques, there exists a guideline that prohibits construction on land lacking proper legal documentation. Yet, demolitions continue in several areas,” he stated.

He emphasized that while many temples are also built on encroached property, the problem intensifies when enforcement lacks fairness.

“If actions are being taken, they should be executed without bias. Otherwise, it is only natural for people to question the motives. I am not fully informed about the specifics of the situation in Delhi. There could have been encroachment, which the government may argue belongs to them, while others may assert it is Waqf land. These conflicts should be settled through dialogue and administrative means,” Mollah remarked.

Criticizing the reliance on bulldozers, he stated, “Bulldozerism represents a new form of barbarism. Whenever incidents arise in states governed by the BJP, bulldozers are deployed. Using a bulldozer is not a civilized approach to governance. If a crime is committed, you cannot raze someone’s residence. Bulldozer barbarism is a recent contribution from the Narendra Modi and BJP administration.”

The CPI(M) leader further noted that religious disputes in India have become increasingly common.

“In these circumstances, I believe the judiciary plays a crucial role. Political parties may align with specific religions, but the judiciary must remain entirely impartial,” he stated.

He urged the judiciary to acknowledge the diverse religious practices while rendering judgments.

“Decisions should be made judiciously. Regrettably, the judiciary has also faced skepticism due to certain rulings. Over the past decade and a half, numerous judgments have been issued, yet many feel they lacked fairness,” Mollah added.

In related news, Delhi Police have detained five individuals linked to a stone-pelting incident during the demolition operation near a mosque, according to officials.

The event took place in proximity to the Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque in the Turkman Gate area, adjacent to Ramlila Ground, where authorities initiated an anti-encroachment drive.

According to officials from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the operation aimed to remove unauthorized structures from land adjacent to the mosque and surrounding areas, in accordance with directives issued by the Delhi High Court on November 12, 2025.

The demolition operation commenced early Wednesday morning, featuring a significant presence of civic staff and police personnel. Officials reported that between 10 and 17 bulldozers were utilized during the operation.

As the demolition proceeded, a large crowd gathered outside the mosque, chanting slogans and protesting against the actions taken.

The situation escalated when some individuals in the crowd attempted to breach police barricades and began throwing stones at the security forces. Police responded by deploying tear gas shells to disperse the protesters and prevent further unrest.

An FIR has been filed under sections pertaining to rioting, assault on a government official, and hindering a public servant in carrying out their duties.