Friday World January 5, 2026
New Delhi, January 5, 2026– In a significant ruling today, the Supreme Court dismissed the bail pleas of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case. A bench comprising Justice Arvind Kumar and Justice N.V. Anjaria held that the role played by both accused appears markedly different and graver compared to the other co-accused.
→ However, the same bench granted bail to five other accused in the same case: Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa-ur-Rahman, Mohammad Saleem Khan, and Shadab Ahmed.
What the Court Observed
→ The bench categorically stated in its order: “Prima facie examination of the evidence reveals that Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam were actively involved in planning, strategizing, and executing the riots. Their role stands distinct and more serious when compared to other co-accused.”
→ The Court further emphasized that granting bail at this stage could adversely affect the ongoing investigation and trial process.
→ The bench specifically referred to electronic evidence including chats, WhatsApp group conversations, speeches, and other material placed by Delhi Police, describing both as appearing to be the “central link” in the alleged conspiracy.
Who Are Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam?
→ Umar Khalid– Former JNU student leader, once associated with AISF, and one of the prominent faces during the nationwide protests against CAA-NRC in 2019–2020. He was arrested in February 2020 in connection with the Delhi riots conspiracy case and has been in Tihar Jail for nearly five years.
→ Sharjeel Imam – Also a former JNU student, he gained nationwide attention for his speeches during the anti-CAA protests at Jamia Millia Islamia and other locations in late 2019 and early 2020. He was the first person arrested in this case on January 28, 2020. Delhi Police alleges that he made statements aimed at dividing the country and was part of the larger conspiracy behind the riots.
Accused Who Received Bail Today
→ The Supreme Court observed that the evidence against these five individuals appears comparatively weaker and they have already spent a considerable time in custody.
→ The five granted bail are:
→ Gulfisha Fatima – Social activist and supporter of the protesters
→ Meeran Haider – Student leader
→ Shifa-ur-Rahman – Social activist
→ Mohammad Saleem Khan – Local resident
→ Shadab Ahmed – Youth associated with the protests
→ The Court imposed standard bail conditions including regular appearance before the trial court, not leaving Delhi without permission, and full cooperation in the investigation.
Background of the Delhi Riots Conspiracy Case
→ In February 2020, large-scale communal riots broke out in the north-east districts of Delhi, resulting in the death of 53 people and injuries to hundreds.
→ Delhi Police described the violence as a pre-planned conspiracy and invoked the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to arrest multiple individuals.
→ A total of 18 main accused were named in the case. While several have already received bail from various courts over the years, Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam have remained in judicial custody throughout.
→ Both had earlier approached the Delhi High Court for bail, where their pleas were rejected, leading them to file fresh petitions before the Supreme Court.
What Happens Next?
→ Following today’s Supreme Court decision, both Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam will now have to present their defence before the trial court.
→ The trial is ongoing in the special NIA court, where examination of witnesses and scrutiny of evidence continues.
→ The verdict is likely to reignite intense political and social debate. Supporters of the two accused have termed the prolonged incarceration as “political vendetta”, while others view it as strict adherence to law based on the seriousness of the allegations. The Supreme Court’s message is clear
→ Bail decisions in such serious cases will be guided solely by the gravity of evidence and the nature of the role played by the accused – not by emotions, public sentiment, or external pressure.
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World January 5, 2026
