Delhi Demolition Drive Turns Violent: FIR Registered, Five Held as Police Probe Possible Conspiracy
The Delhi Police on Wednesday (January 7, 2026) registered an FIR and detained five individuals following violence that broke out during an anti-encroachment operation near the Syed Faiz Elahi Mosque in the Ramlila Maidan area, officials said.
The clash occurred when the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) was carrying out a court-ordered demolition on land adjacent to the mosque and a nearby graveyard. During the operation, a group of people allegedly hurled stones and glass bottles at police personnel, injuring at least five officers.
To bring the situation under control and disperse the crowd, police fired tear gas shells. Five persons were taken into custody for questioning and their involvement is being verified through CCTV footage.
Police officials said investigations are underway to determine whether the violence erupted spontaneously or was a premeditated attempt to obstruct the demolition drive. Efforts are also on to identify other suspects involved in the stone-pelting incident.
Footage Under Scrutiny
Senior officers confirmed that CCTV recordings and videos circulating on social media are being closely examined to identify those responsible. Statements of witnesses and the detained individuals are also being recorded as part of the probe.
The FIR has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges related to obstructing public servants, assault to deter officials from duty, causing hurt, rioting, disobedience of lawful orders, and joint liability, along with provisions of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984.
Mosque Unaffected
An MCD official clarified that the Syed Faiz Elahi Mosque was not damaged during the demolition process. The civic body stated that the drive was conducted strictly in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court.
As part of the large-scale operation, nearly 30 bulldozers and 50 dumpers were deployed, with over 300 MCD workers and officials engaged in clearing encroachments and removing debris. The demolition continued through the night and led to the removal of extensive illegal structures identified by the court.
Police said adequate law and order arrangements remain in place in the area as a precaution. “The situation is under control and normalcy has been restored,” a senior officer said, adding that stringent legal action will be taken against all those found responsible. Further investigation is ongoing.
