Umar Khalid Bail पर Supreme Court में Kapil Sibal की दलील सुन जजों ने क्या किया? Delhi Riots 2020

On Monday, a turning point came in the Supreme Court hearing of the alleged conspiracy behind the 2020 Delhi riots. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing several accused who have been in jail for five years, requested that the next hearing be held before Diwali. He argued that repeated delays not only keep the accused in jail but also violate their constitutional rights.

Several accused, including Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, Gulfsha Fatima, and Meeran Haider, have filed bail petitions, but none have been granted bail yet. Sibal reminded the court that the accused have waited five years for justice, and such delays go against the spirit of the judicial process.

The Supreme Court bench issued a notice to Delhi Police, asking for their response by October 7 and scheduled the next hearing. While the court did not order a pre-Diwali hearing, it took the issue seriously.

Background:
The 2020 Delhi riots erupted during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and NRC, resulting in 53 deaths and over 700 injuries. Police allege the violence was a planned conspiracy, and several activists were charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Recently, the Delhi High Court denied bail to nine accused, including Khalid and Imam, stating that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, it cannot turn violent. The Supreme Court’s upcoming hearing is now crucial for the accused, as the case raises serious questions about justice, constitutional rights, and the speed of India’s judicial process. The outcome will be decided after the October 7 hearing.