MCD carries out demolition drive around Jama Masjid

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has demolished unauthorised structures around the historic Jama Masjid as part of an encroachment removal drive, clearing public spaces and parks in the area. The action was carried out in compliance with directions concerning illegal construction and encroachments, with a focus on reclaiming public land rather than targeting the mosque itself.

The MCD had previously conducted a survey to identify illegal structures in and around the monument. According to Hindustan Times, the drive specifically focused on parks around Jama Masjid in the Old Delhi zone. MCD teams removed the structures with the cooperation of all concerned stakeholders, and the demolition was carried out peacefully, the outlet reported.

Court order and legal basis

The operation follows a directive from the Delhi High Court, which in January ordered a probe into encroachments in and around Jama Masjid. The court directed the civic body to survey the area and take action against unauthorised structures, as reported by Hindustan Times. NewsX reported that the court has, in several matters, directed civic authorities to act on encroachments, with police assistance provided where necessary. Police and security personnel were present during the operation to maintain order, according to the same outlet.

Public land and ongoing operations

The demolished structures were occupying government land and public parks near the monument. Debris clearance operations are currently underway to restore and protect the public land, an MCD spokesperson told Hindustan Times. The corporation is expected to continue enforcement in the area, with officials likely to examine other unauthorised structures identified during the earlier survey, NewsX reported.

The drive highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing the preservation of historic monuments with the need to clear encroachments from public spaces.