Amid the rubble of Turkman Gate, Yasub Abbas’s voice rises in condemnation, charging that mosques are being systematically targeted in a controversial demolition spree. The once-thriving Old Delhi enclave is now a battleground between heritage preservationists and urban developers.
In a pointed statement released via social media, Abbas decried the lack of empathy. ‘Bulldozers don’t distinguish faith, but the orders do,’ he remarked, sharing images of mosque minarets crumbling. The operations have uprooted families overnight, evoking painful memories of past clearances.
Turkman Gate’s legacy as a symbol of resilience shines through its turbulent history. Surviving partitions, emergencies, and riots, its mosques stood as beacons. Now, under the banner of ‘beautification,’ they face existential threats.
Defending the actions, officials point to court directives and safety audits revealing hazardous builds. Abbas, however, rallies for evidence of fair application, alleging selective enforcement based on community affiliations.
Grassroots mobilization is underway, with sit-ins and legal challenges mounting. Abbas coordinates with national bodies, seeking funds for relocation while preserving architectural essence.
This standoff illuminates broader tensions in India’s megacities: the push for modernity clashing with rooted traditions. As voices grow louder, policymakers must navigate these waters carefully to avert wider unrest.