The Delhi High Court has dismissed the bail petitions of former JNU student Umar Khalid, activist Sharjeel Imam, and others involved in the 2020 Delhi riots case.
The bench of Justice Naveen Chawla and Justice Shalinder Kaur rejected the bail applications of not just Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, but also Muhammad Salim Khan, Shifa-ur-Rehman, Athar Khan, Meeran Haider, Abdul Khalid Saifi, and Gulfisha Fatima.
Lawyers advocating for Umar Khalid and others stated that they would challenge the High Court's decision in the Supreme Court. It is noteworthy that Umar Khalid and others are accused of conspiring, leading to the riots in Delhi in February 2020. Delhi Police allege that Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and others orchestrated the riots and have been charged under the UAPA.
During the hearing, activists highlighted that they have already served over four years in custody. However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the prosecution, opposed the bail plea, asserting that the riots were part of a premeditated conspiracy. Mehta claimed it was an attempt to tarnish India’s image globally. He stressed that if one acts against the nation, it is best to remain in jail until acquitted.
Over 50 People Lost Their Lives in the Violence
The riots that erupted in February 2020 in the northeastern region of Delhi resulted in more than 50 deaths and injuries to hundreds. According to police, the riots not only claimed lives but also led to substantial property damage worth crores.
