MCD Clears Encroachments Around Jama Masjid Following Delhi High Court Order
· India · Hindustan Times, Indian Express
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) launched a demolition drive on Monday in the area around the 17th-century Jama Masjid in Old Delhi, clearing unauthorised temporary structures from three public parks near the Mughal-era monument. MCD officials said the action is being carried out in compliance with directions from the Delhi high court to recover encroached public spaces, with teams from the maintenance department deployed since morning. An MCD spokesperson confirmed the demolition exercise was carried out peacefully with cooperation from all stakeholders, and that debris clearance operations are underway. Earlier this year in January, the Delhi high court had ordered a probe into encroachments in and around Jama Masjid, directing the MCD to conduct a comprehensive survey of constructions in the area and initiate statutory action against unauthorised structures.
Why it matters
The drive directly affects traders, vendors, and worshippers in the congested Walled City of Old Delhi, where encroachments around heritage sites have long complicated pedestrian access and civic upkeep. With the high court now actively monitoring compliance, further demolitions across the Jama Masjid precinct and surrounding heritage zones are likely.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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