Five cops injured in clash over anti-encroachment drive in Central Delhi

Delhi: At least five Delhi Police personnel were injured early Wednesday when an anti-encroachment drive near a mosque in the Ramlila Maidan area turned violent, officials said.

The clashes broke out as Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) teams began demolishing structures built on land next to the Syed Faiz Elahi Mosque and an adjoining graveyard at Turkman Gate, following Delhi High Court orders.

Police said teargas was used to disperse the crowd after some people allegedly started throwing stones, creating panic at the site. The situation was later brought under control and normalcy restored, according to the statement.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Nidhin Valsan said the demolition had been scheduled for the intervening night of January 6 and 7. Police personnel were deployed in advance, but around 100–150 people gathered when the MCD machinery arrived, reported PTI.

Most of the crowd left after persuasion, the DCP said, though a few created disturbances and pelted stones, resulting in minor injuries to five policemen who were given medical care.

“We had to use teargas to disperse the crowd,” he said, adding that legal action will follow after doctors’ reports and witness statements. CCTV footage is also being examined.

According to officials, a banquet hall and a dispensary, both declared encroachments by the court, were being demolished. The MCD had informed the police beforehand and sought assistance in maintaining law and order.

Police said they had reached out to local residents, explaining that the operation was legally mandated, and held meetings with peace committees. Senior officers were stationed across different zones as part of enhanced security arrangements.

The situation remains under watch, and more details are awaited.