The Supreme Court heard the bail pleas of Khalid, Imam, and nine other accused in the February 2020 Delhi riots case. The Court sought a response from the Delhi Police. The next hearing will be on October 7.
New Delhi: Today, the Supreme Court heard the petitions of activists Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, Gulfisha Fatima, and Meeran Haider in connection with the February 2020 Delhi riots case. These petitions challenged the Delhi High Court's order, which had denied bail to a total of nine individuals, including Khalid and Imam. The Court sought a response from the Delhi Police in the matter. The next hearing will be on October 7.
Objection to High Court's Order
These activists have challenged the Delhi High Court's order dated September 2. The High Court had stated that conspiratorial violence under the guise of demonstrations or protests by citizens cannot be permitted. Besides Khalid and Imam, the petitions of Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Mohammad Saleem Khan, Shifa ur Rahman, Athar Khan, Abdul Khalid Saifi, and Shadab Ahmed were also rejected.
High Court's Rationale
The Delhi High Court clarified that the Constitution grants citizens the right to peaceful protest. This right is protected under Article 19(1)(a). The Court stated that this right is not absolute and can be subjected to reasonable restrictions. The court also underscored that the right to freedom of speech in public gatherings must remain within the bounds of the law and should not be misused for crime or violence.
Allegations in the Riots
Khalid, Imam, and other accused are alleged to be the masterminds of the February 2020 riots. Action in this case has been taken under UAPA and various sections of the Indian Penal Code. These riots resulted in the deaths of 53 people and injuries to over 700.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court sought a response from the Delhi Police regarding the status of the case and the progress of the investigation. The court directed that the legal process be completed while upholding the rights of the accused activists. Ensuring a fair trial in this matter is a priority for the Supreme Court.
Action Under UAPA
Charges under UAPA imply that the accused are being proceeded against in serious cases related to national security. This law has special provisions for matters such as terrorism and conspiracy. The Supreme Court ensured that the fundamental rights of citizens are not violated while taking action under the law.
