Activist Sharjeel Imam Moves Supreme Court for Bail in Delhi Riots Case
Activist Sharjeel Imam has approached the Supreme Court seeking bail in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case. The move comes just four days after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea, along with those of nine other accused, including Umar Khalid. Imam, who has been in jail for over five years, is facing charges under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for allegedly being a "mastermind" behind the riots that killed 53 people.
Unpacked:
Authorities allege that Imam gave inflammatory speeches at protests opposing the Citizenship Amendment Act, coordinated protests via WhatsApp groups, distributed pamphlets, and mobilized students and residents. The prosecution relies on digital evidence, witness statements, and claim these actions were part of a planned conspiracy to incite violence during the 2020 Delhi riots.
Imam faces charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, which makes bail difficult if accusations appear prima facie true. The court cited ongoing witness testimony, the risk of tampering, and the complexity of the case as reasons for continued detention, despite arguments about his prolonged incarceration.
The riots erupted amid protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, resulting in 53 deaths and hundreds injured, mostly affecting Muslims. Authorities claim the violence was a pre-planned conspiracy, while critics have raised concerns about police conduct and the targeting of anti-CAA activists.
Courts have emphasized the seriousness of the UAPA charges, the volume of evidence, and ongoing witness testimony. The High Court stated that bail cannot be granted if accusations appear credible on their face, and that the safety of society must be balanced against the rights of the accused.