New Delhi, The Supreme Court of India on Thursday turned down the bail applications of activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in connection with the Delhi riots case. The court’s decision came after hearing arguments from prosecutors and defence lawyers, and represents a major development in a case that has been closely watched across the country.
Both Khalid and Imam have been in judicial custody in the riots case, which relates to the violent clashes that broke out in parts of Delhi in early 2020. They were accused of inciting violence during public protests, allegations they have denied. Their legal teams had sought bail on various grounds, citing lack of evidence and delays in the trial process, but the Supreme Court did not find these arguments sufficient to grant temporary release.
In its order, the Supreme Court noted the seriousness of the charges and said that the evidence presented so far did not justify their release at this stage. The justices emphasised that the matter involves questions of public order and national security, factors that influenced their decision to dismiss the bail petitions. The court added that the trial court and the high court had already considered similar submissions before rejecting earlier bail requests.
Prosecutors opposed the bail pleas, arguing that Khalid and Imam could influence witnesses or hamper the ongoing investigation if released. They maintained that permitting bail at this point might disrupt the legal process and affect the course of justice in a case involving multiple accused and complex evidence.
Both Khalid and Imam appeared before the court through their lawyers, who reiterated their clients’ claims of being unjustly targeted and asked the Supreme Court to correct what they described as errors in earlier judicial decisions. They argued that their continued detention was unfair, especially given the time taken for the trial to move forward. However, the apex court was not persuaded by these points.
Following the ruling, Khalid and Imam will remain in custody until their trial progresses. The case continues to unfold in the trial court where evidence is being examined and arguments heard.
Reactions to the Supreme Court’s order have varied. Supporters of Khalid and Imam described the decision as disappointing and called for continued legal efforts. Others welcomed the court’s stance, saying it reflects the need to uphold law and order in sensitive cases.
The Delhi riots, which occurred over several days in February 2020, resulted in significant loss of life and property and prompted widespread debates about accountability, justice, and civil liberties. The prosecutions, including those of Khalid and Imam, have been part of a long and complex legal process.
