The Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed the bail applications of activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in connection with the alleged larger conspiracy behind the February 2020 North‑East Delhi riots.
A Bench comprising Justice Prathiba M. Singh and Justice Dinesh Bhatt rejected the duo’s third bail pleas, ruling that the charges against them required continued judicial scrutiny. Khalid, arrested on September 13, 2020, and Imam, who has also been in custody since 2020, are accused under stringent provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The prosecution has alleged that both activists played a role in orchestrating protests and inciting violence during the riots, which left over 50 people dead and hundreds injured. Their defense teams argued that the charges were politically motivated and that prolonged incarceration violated their fundamental rights.
The High Court, however, maintained that the seriousness of the allegations and the ongoing investigation justified denial of bail at this stage. The ruling is expected to be challenged in the Supreme Court, where similar petitions have previously been filed.
