Turkman Gate unrest: High alert, paramilitary presence continue after demolition clash

New Delhi: Intense security measures remained in effect Thursday at Turkman Gate in Central Delhi, one day after a court-mandated anti-encroachment operation sparked violent clashes and stone-pelting, police officials said.

Large contingents of local police and paramilitary units have been stationed throughout the area to preserve order and deter further unrest. Senior officials confirmed that while the neighbourhood is currently peaceful, they are maintaining a vigilant watch.

“Senior officers are closely monitoring the situation. The area remains peaceful now,” a police officer stated.

The conflict erupted early Wednesday as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) began clearing unauthorised structures near the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque and an adjacent cemetery in the Ramlila Maidan area. The operation was carried out under the explicit instructions of the Delhi High Court.

Violence broke out when a segment of the local population allegedly targeted police and civic workers with stones and glass bottles. Five police officers sustained injuries during the fracas, which prompted authorities to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowd and regain control.

Five individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the rioting, including four adults, identified by police as Mohammad Kashif, Mohammad Kaif, Mohammad Areeb, and Mohammad Adnan, and one juvenile.

Investigators have filed a First Information Report (FIR) and are currently reviewing CCTV recordings and other video evidence to identify additional participants in the violence. Police sources indicated that the initial unrest was likely fueled by a social media post that inaccurately claimed the mosque itself was being demolished.

With inputs from PTI