A fresh political storm erupted after AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi alleged that a section of a Waqf-owned mosque property in Delhi was razed during an anti-encroachment operation, warning that such actions would increase after recent changes to the Waqf law. He described the amended legislation as a “black law” and accused authorities of using it to target Muslim religious properties.

The incident took place near the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque in the Ramlila Maidan area during the late hours of Tuesday night. Tensions escalated when messages circulated on social media claiming that a mosque near Turkman Gate was being demolished. According to police, a crowd gathered soon after and some individuals began pelting stones and glass bottles, injuring at least five police personnel. Security forces later used tear gas to bring the situation under control.

Addressing a public meeting ahead of the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar municipal elections, Owaisi claimed the demolished land was officially recorded as Waqf property under a government gazette notification issued in 1970. He alleged the demolition carried out around 1.30 am was not accidental but part of a broader pattern that would intensify following the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Act.

Owaisi further questioned the role of institutions meant to safeguard such properties. He alleged that despite clear documentation, a court order went against the mosque and accused the Delhi Waqf Board of failing to act in time by not seeking a review. He said the legal battle would now be taken to the Supreme Court.

Taking his criticism further, the AIMIM leader alleged that the amended Waqf law is being systematically used to take over mosques, graveyards, and other Muslim religious sites. He directly blamed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and political leaders who supported the amendment, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, as well as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu.

Linking the issue to the upcoming civic elections, Owaisi appealed to voters to respond democratically. He urged people to vote against the BJP-led leadership in Maharashtra and back AIMIM, claiming it was the only party consistently raising its voice for the protection of constitutional rights and minority institutions.

Touching upon constitutional values, Owaisi said the foundation of India’s democracy lies in the words “We, the people,” and emphasised freedom of faith and belief. He also criticised what he called selective celebration of national symbols, arguing that discussions on constitutional freedoms championed by Dr BR Ambedkar were being sidelined.