Rumours Spark Violence As Court-Ordered Demolition Drive Descends Into Chaos In Old Delhi

A court-ordered anti-encroachment drive near the historic Faiz-e-Ilahi Mosque in Delhi turned violent after rumours spread that the mosque itself was being demolished. Thirty-two bulldozers and four excavators moved in to clear illegal structures — including shops, a banquet hall and an unauthorised dispensary — following coordination meetings with local stakeholders and the Aman Committee. But as misinformation circulated through videos and messages, crowds gathered, stone-pelting began and police were forced to respond with tear gas. Two policemen were injured during the violence. Drone visuals later revealed the truth — the mosque remained untouched. Only illegal constructions around it were razed. Police say several videos were deliberately circulated to give the legal action a communal colour. Five people have been arrested so far, with more detentions as investigators probe the alleged conspiracy behind the unrest. The incident has also triggered political reactions, with AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi questioning selective action, even as authorities insist the operation followed court orders and the law will take its course.