Is Sharjeel Imam Set to Contest Bihar Elections?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Sharjeel Imam, currently imprisoned due to his involvement in the 2020 Delhi riots, is planning to contest the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections from Bahadurganj. This move raises questions about his eligibility and the implications for the political landscape in Bihar.
Key Takeaways
- Sharjeel Imam plans to contest the Bihar Assembly elections.
- He is currently in jail due to the 2020 Delhi riots case.
- The Election Commission of India has announced the election dates.
- His bail application is pending before the Supreme Court.
- The political implications of his candidacy are significant.
New Delhi, Oct 13 (NationPress) Sharjeel Imam, who is currently incarcerated in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots 'larger conspiracy case' and charged under the rigorous Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), is set to run for a seat in the Bihar Assembly elections from the Bahadurganj constituency in Kishanganj district.
Sharjeel Imam, standing as an independent candidate, has requested interim bail from October 15 to October 29. His plea was submitted to Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Sameer Bajpai of the Karkardooma Courts, who is overseeing the Delhi riots conspiracy case.
The Supreme Court is currently reviewing the bail requests of Sharjeel Imam along with fellow activists Umar Khalid, Meeran Haider, and Gulfisha Fatima, and has requested a reply from the Delhi Police.
These student activists have spent the last five years in custody.
Previously, the Delhi High Court had rejected bail for various leaders implicated in the alleged broader conspiracy linked to the Delhi riots.
In a ruling delivered on September 2, a bench consisting of Justices Shalinder Kaur and Navin Chawla mentioned that inflammatory speeches delivered on February 24, 2020, coinciding with then US President Donald Trump's state visit, were allegedly intended to incite riots on February 23-24 and attract global attention.
The court remarked, "The purported inflammatory and provocative speeches made by the appellants, when evaluated in totality, seemingly indicate their involvement in the alleged conspiracy."
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has declared that the Bihar Assembly elections will take place in two phases, on November 6 and 11, with the vote counting set for November 14. The Bahadurganj constituency will vote on November 11.
Point of View
It's essential to acknowledge the complexities surrounding Sharjeel Imam's candidacy. His case not only raises significant legal questions but also highlights the intersection of activism and politics in contemporary India. The upcoming Bihar elections will be a litmus test for public sentiment regarding such controversial figures.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Sharjeel Imam?
Sharjeel Imam is charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for his alleged involvement in the larger conspiracy of the 2020 Delhi riots.
When will the Bihar Assembly elections be held?
The Bihar Assembly elections are scheduled for November 6 and 11, with counting on November 14.
Has Sharjeel Imam been granted bail?
Sharjeel Imam has filed for interim bail from October 15 to October 29, but it has not yet been granted.
