DDA delays temple demolition in Mayur Vihar protests

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has delayed the demolition of three temples in Mayur Vihar. This decision came after a protest led by local MLA Ravinder Singh Negi. The DDA was following a previous order from the Delhi High Court to remove illegal structures in green zones, but the temples have been around for over 40 years. On Thursday morning, DDA officials and police arrived to begin demolition at around 4 a.m. They targeted Kali Mandir, Amarnath Mandir, and Badrinath Mandir. However, MLA Negi was already at the site with protesters to protect the temples. He pointed out that the High Court only mandated demolishing temples built in green zones after 2009. Negi criticized the DDA for issuing the demolition notice just a day before the planned action, limiting the ability of residents to challenge the decision in court. A DDA spokesperson confirmed the postponement and stated that their legal team is reviewing the situation. Negi communicated with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, leading to the halt of the demolition. In response, AAP leader Atishi accused the BJP of initial involvement and claimed they were now pretending to be unaware of the public backlash. She questioned who authorized the police and demolition equipment. There has been no immediate response from the BJP regarding these allegations.