Violence erupts during Delhi demolition drive Home Minister warns

Violence Erupts During Court-Mandated Demolition in New Delhi

Rapid Action Force personnel patrolled after violence broke out during a court-mandated demolition near the Syed Faiz Elahi Mosque and a nearby graveyard in New Delhi on January 7, 2025.

Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood stated on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, that stone pelting during the removal of encroachments near the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque in the Turkman Gate area was “unfortunate.” He warned that violence would not be tolerated.

At least five police personnel were injured when some individuals allegedly threw stones and glass bottles at them. This occurred while the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) was conducting a court-mandated demolition. The police reported that an FIR has been filed, and five people have been detained for questioning.

Mr. Sood mentioned that some commercial establishments had illegally developed around the mosque, prompting action in compliance with court directions. He stated, “Obstructing or disrupting work being carried out within the framework of law is completely unacceptable.”

He added that “certain criminal and mischievous elements” resorted to demonstrations and violence, which cannot be tolerated. Individuals involved in the incident have been identified, and legal action is underway. “So far, five people have been caught in this case,” he noted.

Mr. Sood assured that the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque is completely safe. He emphasized that the action is limited to illegal commercial establishments within the court’s orders. He stated, “There is no arbitrariness or mala fide intent on the part of the government in this matter.” The Minister urged people not to fall prey to provocation.

“Strict action will be taken against those who take the law into their own hands under provocation,” he said, urging cooperation with the administration to identify anti-social elements and maintain peace.

MCD Deputy Commissioner Vivek Kumar clarified that no damage occurred to the mosque during the demolition drive. “The demolition was carried out in compliance with a High Court order, clearing around 36,000 square feet of encroached area,” he said.

He added that the cleared area included one diagnostic center, a marriage hall, and two two-storey boundary walls. The demolition continued through the night. Kumar noted that debris sufficient to fill around 200 to 250 vehicles remains at the site and will be removed as part of the ongoing clean-up operation.