Breaking his silence on the Delhi mosque-adjacent bulldozer controversy, prominent AIMIM voice ST Hasan has taken a firm stand against the dual wrongs: the aggressive demolition exercise and the violent stone-pelting that followed. His equilibrated view seeks to bridge divides in a charged atmosphere.
The trigger was a coordinated municipal push to eliminate illegal extensions encroaching on civic infrastructure near the mosque. As earthmovers rolled in, agitated locals mobilized, unleashing a volley of stones that disrupted the operation and escalated tensions. Quick deployment of additional forces prevented worse outcomes.
In a televised address, Hasan stated, ‘Bulldozers without due process breed resentment; stones without cause breed chaos. Both betray our democratic ethos.’ He advocated rehabilitation for displaced residents and community policing to avert repeats.
This episode mirrors a national trend where bulldozers symbolize decisive governance, yet invite legal and social backlash. Recent rulings by the Supreme Court have tightened norms, requiring hearings and alternatives to instant demolitions. In Delhi, backlog of cases hampers timely resolutions.
Political crossfire ensued. Allies praised Hasan’s maturity, detractors branded it fence-sitting. Videos circulating online captured the frenzy, spurring demands for body cams on officials and independent audits.
Ultimately, the incident spotlights urban India’s encroachment crisis—estimated at millions of unauthorized structures. Hasan’s balanced rebuke may catalyze reforms, urging a shift from confrontation to collaboration. As Delhi evolves, harmony in enforcement will define its progress.