Turkman Gate: 1976 Demolition Echoes as New Clashes Erupt in Delhi

• Recent anti-encroachment drive at Delhi's Turkman Gate led to clashes, arrests, and police injuries near Faiz-e-Elahi mosque.
• Residents protested the MCD's demolition of illegal constructions, despite prior notice and a Delhi High Court order.
• The article draws parallels to the first demolition drive in 1976 during the Emergency, ordered by Sanjay Gandhi.
• The 1976 demolitions, initially unopposed, later sparked widespread anger, protests, and violence in areas like Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk.
• Turkman Gate, built by Shah Jahan in the 17th century, is named after Sufi saint Shah Turkman and was a key entrance to Shahjahanabad.

Why It Matters: Delhi's Turkman Gate sees renewed clashes during demolitions, echoing violent 1976 events under Sanjay Gandhi.