Will the Supreme Court Hear the Delhi Police's Arguments Against Bail in the 2020 Riots Case?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court of India is set to revisit the contentious bail pleas of student leaders linked to the 2020 North East Delhi riots. The Delhi Police argue that the riots were part of a larger, premeditated conspiracy, aiming to provoke unrest and attract international attention.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court is revisiting bail pleas of several student leaders.
- The accused are charged under the UAPA for their involvement in the 2020 riots.
- The Delhi Police claims the riots were a part of a pre-planned conspiracy.
- Evidence includes speeches and communications suggesting a coordinated effort to incite unrest.
- The Delhi High Court had denied bail to all involved previously.
New Delhi, Nov 24 (NationPress) The Supreme Court is scheduled to resume hearings on Monday concerning the bail applications of student leaders Sharjeel Imam, Umar Khalid, Meeran Haider, Gulfisha Fatima, and Shifa-ur-Rehman. These individuals are charged under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the purported "larger conspiracy" behind the 2020 North East Delhi riots.
According to the causelist available on the apex court's website, a Bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and N.V. Anjaria will continue to deliberate on the arguments presented by the Delhi Police opposing bail.
During a previous hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Delhi Police, asserted that the violence of 2020 was not merely a spontaneous communal clash but rather a "well-designed, well-crafted" assault on national sovereignty.
“Your lordships have been informed that there was a protest which led to communal riots. I wish to clarify that this was not a spontaneous riot but a well-planned and orchestrated series of events that will be substantiated by the evidence collected,” S-G Mehta remarked, asserting that materials such as speeches and WhatsApp conversations indicated a "clear and discernible attempt to create communal divisions".
Specifically referencing alleged statements by Sharjeel Imam, the Centre's legal representative mentioned: 'He (Imam) expresses a heartfelt desire for a chakka jam in every city where Muslims live.'
S-G Mehta also pointed to WhatsApp conversations retrieved by the Delhi Police, which supposedly outline "how property should be damaged and funds collected", suggesting it was a systematic attempt to sow societal discord.
On Thursday, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju, representing the Delhi Police, presented video clips of Sharjeel Imam’s speeches and visuals from the 2020 riots to the apex court.
ASG Raju argued that the evidence gathered reflects a “clear, deliberate, and coordinated” effort to incite unrest. The Delhi Police's counter-affidavit categorized Umar Khalid as a “key conspirator” and “mentor” to others, including Imam, alleging that the conspiracy was premeditated to align with the official visit of US President Donald Trump.
“This was executed to attract the attention of the 'international media' and to frame the issue of CAA as a global concern, portraying it as a pogrom against the Muslim community in India. The CAA was strategically chosen to act as a 'radicalizing catalyst', disguised as a 'peaceful protest',” the affidavit stated.
Previously, the Delhi High Court had denied bail requests from all accused parties.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain objective in reporting on such sensitive matters. The ongoing legal battles surrounding the 2020 Delhi riots reflect broader societal tensions and the need for justice. Our commitment remains to uphold the principles of fairness and thorough analysis in these unprecedented times.
NationPress
24/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the bail pleas for the accused in the 2020 riots case?
The Supreme Court is currently hearing the bail pleas of the accused student leaders under the UAPA.
What charges are the accused facing?
They are charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for their alleged role in a larger conspiracy behind the riots.
Who represents the Delhi Police in court?
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju are representing the Delhi Police.
What did the Delhi Police claim about the nature of the riots?
The Delhi Police asserted that the riots were a premeditated, orchestrated attack, not a spontaneous event.
What was the Delhi High Court's previous decision regarding bail?
The Delhi High Court had previously rejected bail pleas from all accused parties.
