Sharjeel Imam's uncle expressed his astonishment at the Supreme Court's decision to deny bail in the Delhi riots conspiracy case. Nevertheless, he stated he respects the court's ruling.
On Monday, the Supreme Court announced its verdict on this matter. The court rejected the bail petitions of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, although five other accused were granted bail. The court emphasized that all accused are not in the same position, and decisions were based on the hierarchy of participation in the case. According to the court, Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid stand in a different category from the other accused.
'I am shocked by the decision...'
Speaking to journalists in Jehanabad, Sharjeel Imam's uncle, Arshad Imam, said, 'I am deeply shocked by the decision. I was hopeful that the court would grant bail this time, as everything during the arguments seemed to indicate Sharjeel's innocence. Still, as an Indian citizen, I respect the court's decision.'
'My Nephew Is Innocent'
However, he remains hopeful that Sharjeel will eventually be released on bail. 'I believe my nephew is innocent, and despite any delays, he will certainly get bail. I will read the court's decision, discuss it thoroughly with my lawyer, and then initiate the process anew,' he added.
Respect for the Court's Decision
When asked about other accused getting bail, he said, 'Why these two were denied bail, only the court knows. However, it is every Indian's duty to respect the court's decision, whether in favor or not.'
All accused in this case are being tried under various sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code. The February 2020 riots in North-East Delhi resulted in 53 fatalities and over 700 injuries.
It is notable that Sharjeel Imam was arrested on January 28, 2020, for speeches during anti-CAA protests and later, in August 2020, for a larger conspiracy case. Umar Khalid was arrested on September 13, 2020.
