Activist Sharjeel Imam Seeks Bail in Riots Case, Cites Lack of Involvement

Sharjeel Imam, a political activist entangled in a legal battle over alleged involvement in the February 2020 Delhi riots, presented his defense before the Delhi High Court, asserting his innocence and pointing to his absence from any key planning or conspiratorial meetings related to the unrest.

His counsel emphasized Imam's role as the family's primary provider, highlighting that his speeches and exchanges on platforms like WhatsApp never advocated violence. The defense further clarified that Imam was arrested in Bihar on separate charges and not in direct connection with the riots, thus, indicating a potential disconnect.

Labeling the prosecution's evidence as inadequate, Imam's lawyer challenged the allegations tying Imam to Umar Khalid and others under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Pointing to Imam's earlier acquittals on similar charges, the counsel urged the court to consider his bail plea compassionately.

(With inputs from agencies.)