Who Were Arrested for Stone-Pelting During Demolition Near Delhi Mosque?
Synopsis
In a significant law enforcement action, five individuals have been arrested following a violent incident during a demolition operation near a mosque in Delhi. The situation escalated when residents protested against the removal of alleged encroachments, leading to stone-pelting and police intervention that involved tear gas. This incident highlights ongoing tensions over urban development and community rights.
Key Takeaways
Five individuals arrested for stone-pelting.
Incident occurred during a demolition drive near a mosque.
Protests escalated as residents opposed the action.
Police responded with tear gas to control the situation.
Ongoing investigations to find additional suspects.
New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) - The Delhi Police have apprehended five individuals connected to the stone-pelting incident that transpired during a demolition operation near a mosque, as reported by officials.
The event took place adjacent to the Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque in the Turkman Gate region, near Ramlila Ground, where authorities initiated an anti-encroachment drive.
As per officials from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), this operation aimed to remove unauthorized structures from land surrounding the mosque and nearby areas, following directives issued by the Delhi High Court on November 12, 2025.
The demolition activities commenced in the early hours of Wednesday, backed by a significant presence of civic staff and police. Officials noted that between 10 to 17 bulldozers were utilized during the operation.
As the demolition progressed, a large gathering of residents formed outside the mosque, voicing their dissent and protesting against the actions taken.
The atmosphere quickly escalated into chaos when some protesters attempted to breach the police barricades and began throwing stones at law enforcement. In response, police deployed tear gas shells to disperse the crowd and prevent further unrest.
An FIR has been lodged under sections pertaining to rioting, assault against a government official, and obstruction of public duty.
Previously, police had detained 10 individuals for questioning regarding the incident.
Efforts to locate additional suspects are ongoing.
More details are awaited.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Delhi High Court issued a notice regarding a petition filed by the managing committee of Masjid Syed Elahi, challenging the MCD's decision to eliminate what they claimed to be alleged encroachments from land next to the mosque and a nearby graveyard at Ramlila Maidan.
However, civic authorities maintained that their actions were in accordance with court directives concerning unauthorized constructions.
Point of View
I recognize the serious implications of this incident for community relations and urban governance. The enforcement of demolition orders must balance legal compliance with community sentiments, highlighting the need for dialogue between civic authorities and residents.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrests during the demolition drive?
The arrests were made after violent protests erupted against the demolition of unauthorized structures near a mosque.
How many people were involved in the initial detainment?
Initially, 10 people were detained for questioning before the five arrests were made.
What was the reason for the demolition drive?
The demolition was part of an anti-encroachment operation mandated by the Delhi High Court to remove unauthorized constructions.
Was there police intervention during the protests?
Yes, police used tear gas to disperse the crowd when stone-pelting occurred.
What legal actions have been taken following the incident?
An FIR has been filed under various sections, including rioting and obstruction of public duty.
