Supreme Court Reviews Bail Denial for Activists in Delhi Riots Conspiracy Case

The Supreme Court on Monday put Delhi police on notice regarding bail pleas from activists like Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid. The pleas challenge the Delhi High Court's decision denying them bail in a UAPA case tied to the alleged conspiracy behind the 2020 northeast Delhi riots. Justices Aravind Kumar and NV Anjaria scheduled a hearing for October 27.

Representing the accused, Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi highlighted their status as students jailed for over five years. The bench acknowledged, saying, "Yes, we will hear you and dispose of the issue," and subsequently issued notices.

The Delhi High Court had denied bail on September 2 to Imam, Khalid, and others, viewing the riots as premeditated rather than spontaneous. Inflammatory speeches allegedly given by Imam and Khalid were deemed to incite mass mobilization of the Muslim community. With the backdrop of protests against the CAA and NRC amendments, the violence left 53 dead and over 700 injured, drawing significant national attention.

(With inputs from agencies.)