The Municipal Corporation of Delhi on Saturday sealed and demolished portions of 70 shops in a drive against alleged encroachments in Uttam Nagar, days after a man died following a clash in the area during Holi celebrations.

Tarun Bhutolia was severely injured in a clash on March 4 that began after a water balloon accidentally thrown by an 11-year-old girl from the third floor of a building fell on a Muslim woman standing below. The incident had led to an argument between the two neighbouring families from different religious communities.

The 26-year-old man had succumbed to his injuries the next day.

Bhutolia’s killing had sparked tensions in the area. Several vehicles were damaged and some were set on fire during protests by residents, following which police and paramilitary personnel were deployed.

On Saturday, the municipal authority said that the demolition drive had been undertaken to remove what it stated were unauthorised platforms, stairs and temporary sheds in front of the shops to “ensure smoother pedestrian movement and better traffic flow”.

Team MCD in West Zone carried out an encroachment removal drive at B-Block, JJ Colony, Hastsal, reclaiming public space and restoring order in the area.

Unauthorized thadas, stairs and temporary sheds in front of 70 shops were removed, clearing about 380 metres of road… pic.twitter.com/Gd14ONll5P

— Municipal...

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