Tensions remain high in central Delhi's historic Turkman Gate area days after violent clashes erupted during a court-ordered anti-encroachment drive. The investigation into the incident has expanded significantly, with police making a twelfth arrest and detaining fifteen more individuals for questioning.
The latest arrest is Mohammad Imran, a resident of Seelampur. Among the twelve total arrests is one juvenile, indicating a broadening probe into the unrest that saw stone-pelting targeting police personnel and left five officers injured, including the local Station House Officer.
Security agencies conducted overnight raids across multiple parts of the capital to track down suspects and prevent further mobilization. In a notable development, officials are questioning a YouTube influencer from Jamia Nagar to ascertain his alleged role in amplifying the unrest. Police are examining whether social media posts, including one that falsely claimed the Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid was being demolished, triggered the violent gathering.
The legal process is moving swiftly. On Thursday, a Delhi court remanded five accused—Mohammad Arib, Kashif, Adnan, Mohammad Kaif, and Sameer—to 13 days of judicial custody. Their bail pleas will be heard on Friday. The Delhi Police have registered a comprehensive First Information Report (FIR) at the Chandni Mahal police station under stringent sections of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including obstructing public servants, rioting, and assault, along with the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
With the situation described as "tense," police presence has been intensified in sensitive zones, including Turkman Gate, Jamia Nagar, Chandni Mahal, Ballimaran, and the Jama Masjid area. In a preventive move ahead of Friday prayers, Delhi Police held a meeting with the Aman Committee, a peace-keeping group, to foster calm and combat the spread of misinformation.
Despite earlier advisories for worshippers to pray at home or nearby local mosques to avoid large gatherings, police have now granted permission for prayers to be offered at the Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid itself. However, authorities remain on high alert for potential demonstrations post-prayers, with heavy security deployments in place to prevent any renewed flare-up.
The violence unfolded during an anti-encroachment operation near the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque in the Ramlila Maidan area on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday. Police sources indicate that trouble brewed rapidly after a social media post inaccurately claimed the mosque was being demolished, leading to a crowd gathering and the subsequent clashes.
The incident underscores the volatile mix of contested urban space, judicial mandates, and the potent role of social media in mobilizing public sentiment. As investigations continue to determine the precise chain of events and culpability, the administration's focus remains on maintaining public order while navigating the complex socio-political landscape of Old Delhi.
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