Why is it in the news?
→ A demolition drive turned violent, recalling Emergency-era demolitions examined by Shah Commission.
→ Renewed focus on Turkman Gate’s historical significance.
Category: History
Important Points
- Turkman Gate was one of 14 gates of Shahjahanabad founded by Shah Jahan around 1650 AD.
- Named after Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Turkman Bayabani.
- The area predates Mughal Delhi with a strong Sufi heritage.
- Located in Old Delhi near Jama Masjid; linked Fatehpuri Masjid–Hauz Qazi–Yamuna belt.
- Served defensive and commercial functions.
- Survived Revolt of 1857, colonial demolitions, Partition, and later restructuring.