BJP demands illegal construction be demolished

Remains of the Mughal-era mosque, believed to be that of Akbarabadi Masjid, were discovered in Subhash Park near Red Fort, recently during Delhi Metro construction and locals led by MLA Shoib Iqbal had raised a structure over the remains defying orders.

Soon after Commissioner P K Gupta told the meeting that Iqbal encroached upon MCD land and started the work on the site, BJP members demanded that the illegal construction be demolished. This was opposed by Congress councilors.

"During the excavation, historical remains have been unearthed from the site as claimed by local MLA Shoaib Iqbal to be part of Akbarabadi mosque. He was pursued by the Corporation authorities not to carry out any construction or rituals at the site till a proper decision was taken by the Appropriate Authority," Gupta said.

Despite persuading him, Gupta said, encroachment and illegal construction was done on the site that will now have to be handed over to the ASI.

"The ASI however is yet to take possession from North Corporation," he said.

Standing Committee chairman Yogender Chandolia then asked the Commissioner to place the facts before the court on Wednesday and get the illegal encroachment removed. His comments was opposed by Congress members.

Mayor Meera Aggarwal said all stakeholders have agreed to wait for court decision before taking any action on the site.

"The court will hear the issue on Wednesday and the North Corporation will abide by whatever decision it takes," she said.