Judge Returns to Uncover Truth in 2020 Delhi Riots Case

A judge formerly assigned to the investigation into the 2020 Delhi riots under the UAPA has been directed to return to the case starting July 1, per a Delhi High Court order. The High Court had previously transferred Judge Sameer Bajpai to a court in the Saket district in late May.

In an unforeseen reversal, Bajpai was reinstated to preside over the 'larger conspiracy' case regarding the events of February 2020 in the Shahdara district. Additional sessions judge Lalit Kumar, who had temporarily replaced Bajpai, noted that arguments on the charges had been completed by the prosecution and five of the accused individuals before Bajpai's return was ordered.

The case, which encompasses a voluminous 17,000-page chargesheet and accuses 20 individuals under the UAPA for allegedly orchestrating the riots, is set to resume post-summer break on July 2. The proceedings have been delayed due to the document's length and the need for careful scheduling of arguments.

(With inputs from agencies.)