During a recent demolition drive carried out by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in Khajoori Khas, numerous unauthorized constructions were razed, affecting several residents, including Wakeel Hassan, a member of the rat-hole mining team that played a pivotal role in the successful rescue of 41 workers trapped in Uttarkashi's Silkyara tunnel the previous November.
Expressing his dismay in a video message, Hassan alleged that his house was demolished without prior notice, despite assurances from the government. "My only request as recognition for my efforts in the Uttarakhand rescue operation was to spare my house, but the DDA demolished it abruptly," Hassan stated.
He further lamented that despite promises from the authorities that his dwelling would be safeguarded, it was destroyed nonetheless.
In the video footage, Hassan displayed the aftermath of the demolition, highlighting the distressing consequences. Additionally, he mentioned having to visit a police station regarding the incident. Accompanying him in the video was Munna Qureshi, another member of the rescue team, who claimed they were subjected to police brutality during the ordeal.
Moreover, they accused the police of bringing Hassan's minor children to the station and mistreating them.
Responding to queries regarding the demolition drive, the DDA emphasized that it was executed to clear encroachments from land earmarked for planned development. A DDA spokesperson informed news agency PTI, "On February 28, a demolition drive was conducted by the DDA to remove encroachment from its acquired land in village Khajoori Khas."
A Delhi Police official, when approached, confirmed the demolition of several unauthorized structures during the operation and noted their role in maintaining law and order.
It is notable that Hassan and five other members of the rat-hole mining team reside in Khajoori Khas, while the remaining members hail from Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh. The rat-hole mining team played a crucial role in the rescue operation at the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand, employing specialized techniques to clear debris and extricate the trapped workers.
