New Delhi, January 5: The Supreme Court on Monday rejected the bail pleas of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the alleged “larger conspiracy” case linked to the 2020 Delhi riots, holding that their roles were distinct and more serious compared to other accused.
A Bench comprising Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice N.V. Anjaria ruled that the cases of Khalid and Imam could not be equated with those of other co-accused who were granted bail. The Court observed that both were alleged to have played a central role in the conspiracy, justifying continued custody under the stringent provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
At the same time, the apex court granted bail to five other accused—Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa Ur Rahman, Mohammed Salim Khan, and Shadab Ahmed—noting that their alleged roles were materially different.
‘Key Role in Alleged Offences’
The Bench noted that while Khalid and Imam have spent over five years in custody, prolonged incarceration by itself does not automatically entitle an accused to bail when serious allegations under UAPA are involved. The Court said the material on record prima facie indicated their active involvement in the alleged offences, distinguishing their cases from others.
Police Cites ‘Nationwide Conspiracy’
Opposing the bail pleas, the Delhi Police argued that the riots were not spontaneous but part of a deep-rooted, pre-planned conspiracy aimed at destabilising the State. The prosecution claimed the violence was allegedly timed with the visit of the then US President to India, with the objective of drawing international attention to protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
According to the prosecution, the alleged conspiracy led to 53 deaths, over 700 injuries, and extensive damage to public property, resulting in 753 FIRs being registered across Delhi.
Background
Khalid, Imam, and several others were arrested under UAPA in connection with the February 2020 communal violence that erupted amid protests against CAA and NRC. In September 2025, the Delhi High Court had earlier rejected bail pleas of Khalid, Imam, and other accused, observing that their alleged roles in mobilising crowds through provocative speeches appeared “grave” at the prima facie stage.
With the Supreme Court now affirming that view, both Khalid and Imam will remain in judicial custody as the trial continues.
