Turkman Gate Violence: Delhi Police Detain 11 Accused, YouTuber Under Scanner for Alleged Provocation

Delhi: Delhi Police have intensified their crackdown following the violent stone-pelting episode at Turkman Gate, arresting six additional individuals on Thursday in connection with the unrest. With the latest action, the total number of people taken into custody in the case has risen to 11, as investigators widen the probe into the incident that erupted during an anti-encroachment operation earlier this week.

Authorities have also decided to question a YouTuber named Salman, who is suspected of using online platforms to provoke the crowd. Police officials said a formal notice will be issued to him soon to determine whether his content played a role in fuelling tensions at the site.

The violence occurred late Tuesday night after rumours spread on social media suggesting that the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque near Ramlila Maidan was being demolished. Police sources said misinformation triggered panic, leading to a sudden gathering of people near the demolition site. What began as a protest quickly escalated, with some individuals allegedly hurling stones and glass bottles at police personnel and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) staff.

On Wednesday, civic authorities resumed the demolition drive in the Turkman Gate area under tight security. Officials clarified that the operation was being conducted strictly as per Delhi High Court orders and involved the removal of illegal commercial structures built on land adjoining the mosque and a nearby graveyard. The MCD categorically stated that no part of the mosque was damaged during the action.

During the unrest, at least five police personnel sustained injuries while attempting to control the crowd. Law enforcement agencies used tear gas and minimal force to disperse the gathering and restore order. Several people were briefly detained for questioning, while five accused, including a minor, were arrested earlier.

Police officials are now examining CCTV footage and social media videos to identify more suspects and ascertain whether the violence was spontaneous or deliberately orchestrated to disrupt the civic operation. Senior officers confirmed that the MCD had informed the police in advance about the demolition and adequate force had been deployed as a precaution.