Clashes Erupt in Aligarh as Anti-Encroachment Drive Turns Violent

India: A routine anti-encroachment operation by the Aligarh Municipal Corporation escalated into a scuffle on Monday, with municipal enforcement officials and street vendors clashing in a busy market area.

The incident occurred when the civic team’s attempt to remove illegally placed carts and stalls, commonly operated by street vendors, met with resistance. Videos circulating on social media show heated arguments quickly turning physical, with pushing, shoving, and allegations of assault on both sides.

According to some eyewitness reports, vendors, many identified as Muslim street sellers, allegedly initiated the confrontation by attacking the enforcement team. Officials claim they retaliated only in self-defence. An FIR has been registered by local police, with the civic body stating that vendors were the aggressors during efforts to clear public spaces.

Vendors, however, have accused the municipal team of harassment and high-handed behaviour during the drive. They allege mistreatment and excessive force while attempting to seize their carts and goods.

No major injuries or large-scale violence have been officially confirmed, and the situation appears to have been brought under control without further escalation. The episode highlights ongoing tensions in Uttar Pradesh over anti-encroachment campaigns, which frequently target informal street vendors in crowded urban markets.

Local police are investigating the matter, and authorities have urged calm while the probe continues. The drive is part of broader efforts by municipal bodies to reclaim public land and roads from unauthorised occupations.