The Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) has strongly objected to the demolition carried out by the municipal authorities near the Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid in Delhi’s Turkman Gate area, terming it an attack on Waqf property. The party said the action was the result of legal lapses and administrative negligence.
In a statement, SDPI National Vice President Mohammad Shafi said the Delhi High Court had passed an order in the matter on November 12, 2025, despite the fact that a 1970 Gazette notification clearly records the land as Waqf property. He pointed out that the Delhi Waqf Board was not made a party to the case, nor was any review petition filed against the order.
The party alleged that the court went beyond its jurisdiction in deciding the question of ownership of the mosque land, on the basis of which the municipal corporation launched a demolition drive on the morning of January 7, 2026. According to SDPI, the action caused damage to Waqf assets and led to unrest in the locality.
Linking the incident to a broader pattern, SDPI alleged that in BJP-ruled states, Waqf Boards often fail to effectively present facts before courts, resulting in cases going uncontested and disputes over religious properties emerging.
The party also questioned the present implementation of the Waqf Act, stating that a law enacted to protect Waqf properties is instead being used against mosques, graveyards and community institutions.
SDPI demanded immediate restoration of the status quo at the site, accountability for officials responsible for the demolition, and compensation for losses to Waqf property. It added that urgent legal steps, including approaching the Supreme Court if necessary, must be taken to safeguard Waqf land.
The party appealed to the public to take these developments seriously and to register their voice through democratic means.