A demolition operation carried out by civic authorities in central Delhi has triggered political controversy and street unrest after AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi claimed that land belonging to a mosque was demolished during the drive. The operation, conducted near the Ramlila Maidan and Turkman Gate areas, was part of an anti-encroachment action ordered under earlier court directions.
Owaisi alleged that the action affected land registered under the Waqf Board and accused the government of misusing provisions of the amended Waqf Act. He described the law as discriminatory and said religious properties were being selectively targeted. The AIMIM chief announced that his party would challenge the matter legally, stating that constitutional protections for minority institutions were being undermined.
The demolition drive, however, led to violent clashes after local residents and protestors objected to the presence of bulldozers. According to police officials, stone-pelting incidents were reported during the protest, leaving several police personnel injured. Law enforcement agencies used tear gas to control the situation and detained multiple individuals in connection with the violence.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) firmly denied the allegations, clarifying that no part of the mosque structure or its legally recognised land was damaged. Officials said the action was limited to removing illegal constructions, including commercial buildings, that were encroaching on public land in violation of court orders.
Authorities also warned against the spread of misinformation, stating that misleading claims had intensified tensions in the area. Security has since been increased to prevent further unrest.
The incident has added fuel to the ongoing national debate surrounding the amended Waqf Act, with opposition parties questioning its impact on religious land rights, while the government maintains that enforcement actions are purely legal and non-discriminatory.
