The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to pronounce its orders on the bail applications of activist Umar Khalid, student leader Sharjeel Imam, and three other accused in the high-profile Delhi riots conspiracy case on 5 January 2024. The pronouncement will come as the apex court reopens after its winter recess.
Verdict Reserved After Intense Hearings
A bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and N V Anjaria had concluded hearing extensive arguments from both sides and reserved its verdict on 10 December 2023. The bench heard submissions from a battery of senior lawyers representing the accused, including Kapil Sibal, Abhishek Singhvi, Siddhartha Dave, Salman Khurshid, and Sidharth Luthra.
Appearing for the prosecution, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Additional Solicitor General S V Raju strongly opposed granting bail to the accused. The Delhi Police, through its counsel, argued that the February 2020 communal violence was not a spontaneous event. They described it as an "orchestrated, pre-planned and well-designed" attack aimed at undermining India's sovereignty.
Serious Charges Under Anti-Terror Law
Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and the other co-accused face serious charges under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA) and various sections of the Indian Penal Code. The prosecution alleges they were the "masterminds" behind the conspiracy that led to the devastating riots.
The northeast Delhi violence, which erupted in the backdrop of widespread protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), resulted in a tragic loss of life and property. 53 people lost their lives, and more than 700 individuals sustained injuries during the clashes.
Awaiting the Apex Court's Decision
The upcoming order on 5 January is a critical juncture in this long-running legal battle. Bail under the UAPA is exceptionally difficult to secure, as the law imposes a high bar for release. The court's decision will be closely watched, as it will have significant implications for the ongoing trial and the legal interpretation of conspiracy charges in such cases.
The nation awaits the Supreme Court's reasoned order, which will determine whether the accused will remain in judicial custody or be granted bail while the trial continues. This remains a developing story, and further updates will follow the court's pronouncement.
