New Delhi: The historic Akhonji Masjid, which housed the Islamic Seminary Bahrul Uloom and a graveyard of revered figures, has been demolished by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi.
As per media reports, the mosque, also known as Jinnat Wali Masjid or Dargah Akhonji, was demolished on Tuesday, January 30 between 5:30 am and 6:00 am in the presence of police, with debris being quickly removed before (Fajr) prayers.
The Imam asserted that DDA officials, along with a substantial police presence, not only tore down the mosque but also took phones forcefully, stopping anyone from recording the event.
Moreover, he mentioned that the officials refused access to copies of the Holy Qur’an and damaged the belongings of 22 students who were studying at the madrassa
"When I reached the site, I was not allowed to enter the mosque, and my phone was snatched so that I couldn't contact others during the demolition," Mosque’s Imam, Zakir Hussain, was quoted as saying.
“I was not even allowed to take copies of the Holy Quran,” he said.
A demolition drive by the DDA and the Forest Department in the Sanjay Van area is ongoing, affecting multiple structures such as temples, dargahs, and graveyards with the authorities saying the removals are being conducted peacefully, in compliance with the orders of the Ridge Management Board to clear 'illegal encroachments.'