10 Detained After Violence During Demolition Near Delhi Mosque
New Delhi | January 7, 2026 | DeccanLive.com
Delhi Police have registered an FIR and taken 10 people into custody after violence broke out during an anti-encroachment drive near Syed Faiz Ilahi Mosque in the Ramlila Maidan area on Wednesday.
According to the police, the incident happened when the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) was carrying out a demolition drive on land near the mosque and the adjoining graveyard, following orders from the court. During the operation, some people allegedly pelted stones and threw glass bottles at police personnel, leaving at least 10 police officers injured.
To control the situation and disperse the crowd, police used tear gas shells. Officials said the situation was later brought under control.
Police confirmed that 10 individuals have been detained for questioning. CCTV footage from the area is being examined to verify their involvement. Authorities are also trying to find out whether the violence happened suddenly or was planned in advance to disrupt the demolition work.
Senior police officers said that CCTV recordings and videos circulating on social media are being closely analysed to identify those responsible. Statements from witnesses and the detained persons are also being recorded as part of the investigation.
The FIR has been registered under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to obstructing government officials, attacking police personnel, rioting, disobeying official orders, and causing damage to public property. Sections of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984 have also been added.
Meanwhile, an MCD official clarified that no damage was caused to Syed Faiz Ilahi Mosque during the demolition drive. The civic body stated that the action was carried out strictly as per the directions of the Delhi High Court.
Police said security remains tight in the area and further action will be taken once the investigation is completed.
