New Delhi – The old Delhi witnessed unprecedented tension early Wednesday morning as the Turkman Gate demolition drive began under controversial circumstances. Civic authorities and law enforcement agencies initiated the removal of encroachments surrounding a century-old mosque, sparking widespread protests and violent confrontations.
Unexpected Timing of Turkman Gate Demolition
The Turkman Gate demolition operation took residents by complete surprise when it commenced at 1:30 AM instead of the scheduled 8:00 AM start time. This dramatic change in timing has raised serious questions about the authorities’ approach to the sensitive operation. Videos circulating among local residents’ groups showed bulldozers and earth-movers demolishing structures near the mosque while substantial police forces maintained a perimeter around the area.
The pre-dawn timing of the Turkman Gate demolition appeared designed to minimize resistance, but it ultimately triggered significant local opposition. Residents, caught off-guard by the sudden action, quickly mobilized to protest the unexpected operation.
Violent Clashes and Police Response
The Turkman Gate demolition witnessed serious law and order challenges as tensions escalated between protesters and security forces. Multiple videos emerged showing police firing tear-gas shells while groups of people responded by pelting stones at security personnel. At least five police officers sustained injuries during the confrontations, highlighting the intensity of the situation.
Joint Commissioner of Police (Central Range) Madhur Verma confirmed that the Turkman Gate demolition was conducted pursuant to Delhi High Court directions. He emphasized that comprehensive law and order arrangements were implemented to ensure smooth operations. The entire area was strategically divided into nine zones, each supervised by an Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police rank officer.
Massive Security Deployment
To facilitate the Turkman Gate demolition, authorities deployed over 10 companies of Delhi Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel. This substantial security presence underscored the operation’s sensitive nature and anticipated resistance. Police officials positioned adequate forces at all sensitive points throughout the neighborhood.
Before executing the Turkman Gate demolition, several coordination meetings were held with Aman Committee members and local stakeholders. These meetings aimed to maintain peace and prevent untoward incidents, though the ultimate timing decision appeared to contradict these collaborative efforts.
Legal Background and High Court Notice
The Turkman Gate demolition proceeded despite the Delhi High Court issuing notice on Tuesday regarding a petition filed by the managing committee of Masjid Syed Elahi. The petition challenged the Municipal Corporation of Delhi’s decision to remove alleged encroachments from land adjoining the mosque and burial ground located at Ramlila Maidan.
On November 12, 2025, the High Court had given MCD and Delhi Public Works Department three months to clear 38,940 square feet of encroachments at Ramlila Ground near Turkman Gate. This order, based on a joint survey conducted in October 2025, included portions of roads, footpaths, a banquet hall, car parking, and a private diagnostics center.
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MCD’s Encroachment Claims
The Turkman Gate demolition followed MCD’s December 22, 2025 notice declaring all structures beyond 0.195 acres liable for removal. The municipal corporation concluded that no documentary evidence established ownership or lawful possession of the land by the managing committee or Delhi Waqf Board. Notably, the 0.195-acre area houses the mosque itself.
The joint survey supporting the Turkman Gate demolition involved multiple agencies including MCD, Delhi Development Authority, PWD, Land and Development Office, Union Ministry of Urban Development, revenue department, and police.
Previous Resistance and Site Marking
Prior to the Turkman Gate demolition, MCD officials visited the site on Sunday to mark encroached areas but faced significant resistance from locals. This resistance prompted increased police deployment and likely influenced the decision to conduct operations during pre-dawn hours.
Security Concerns and Red Fort Connection
Officials had previously stated that Red Fort blast suspect Umar un-nabi visited the mosque before the November 10 explosion that killed 12 people, including Nabi, and injured over 20 others. This connection added another layer of complexity to the Turkman Gate demolition operation.
Resident Testimonies
A 32-year-old mobile phone shop owner near the mosque described remaining confined to his home since midnight. He reported police arrival around 1:00 AM and witnessed protesters pelting stones before police deployed tear gas shells. By morning, he indicated the situation had normalized.
Conclusion
The Turkman Gate demolition represents a flashpoint in Delhi’s ongoing struggle between development priorities and community concerns. The pre-dawn operation’s controversial timing, combined with violent clashes and pending legal challenges, ensures this incident will remain under intense scrutiny. As normalcy gradually returns to the area, questions persist about balancing enforcement efficiency with community sensitivity and legal due process.
