In a significant development, the Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the bail petitions of activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in connection with the alleged larger conspiracy behind the 2020 Delhi riots. The court also rejected bail applications filed by seven other accused, including activist Gulfisha Fatima, United Against Hate founder Khalid Saifi, Athar Khan, Mohd Saleem, Shifa-ur-Rehman, Meeran Haider, and Shadaab Ahmed.

All nine individuals are charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for their alleged roles in orchestrating the riots, which led to widespread violence in Northeast Delhi in February 2020. The court’s decision marks another setback for the accused, who have consistently denied the charges and maintained that the case is politically motivated.

The detailed order from the bench emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and the prima facie material supporting the charges, leading to the denial of bail at this stage. The case continues to draw national attention due to its implications for civil liberties, freedom of speech, and the use of anti-terror laws in protest-related incidents.

Also Read: US Air Force’s New Policy: Transgender Troops Denied Hearings Before Discharge

Also Read: Shocking Rejection Rate: Nearly 34,000 Candidates Failed UPSC Interviews