A recent demolition drive conducted by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in Khajoori Khas has left Wakeel Hassan, one of the heroes credited with rescuing 41 workers trapped in Uttarakhand's Silkyara tunnel last year, homeless. Hassan, along with several others, had their houses razed during the drive on Wednesday.
Frustration and allegations
Expressing frustration over the demolition, Wakeel Hassan lamented the loss of his home, which he had repeatedly sought from authorities to no avail. He accused the government of neglecting his pleas and criticised the suddenness of the demolition carried out by the DDA without prior notice.
DDA's explanation
In response to inquiries about the demolition, the DDA stated that the drive targeted encroachments on land designated for planned development. The authority clarified that structures built illegally were removed during the operation.
Police assistance and controversy
While Hassan claimed he was accompanied by Munna Qureshi, another member of the rescue team, to the police station following the incident, alleging mistreatment, Delhi Police stated that their role was to maintain law and order during the drive. The demolition sparked controversy, with accusations of police brutality surfacing.
Heroic rescue effort
Wakeel Hassan and his team's specialised mining techniques were instrumental in saving the lives of 41 workers trapped in the Silkyara tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand. Their heroic efforts garnered widespread acclaim, yet the recent turn of events has left Hassan and his colleagues grappling with homelessness amidst ongoing legal disputes.
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