Delhi Police opposes bail for Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in riots case

Delhi Police has opposed the bail petitions of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the Delhi High Court, arguing that their release could affect the ongoing trial in the Delhi riots conspiracy case. The police have described both accused as key witnesses in the matter and warned that their release at this stage could influence other witnesses yet to depose before the court.

In its response filed before the High Court, Delhi Police stated that there are sufficient charges against Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam linking them to the alleged conspiracy to incite riots. The case against both has been registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. The police emphasized that the trial is still underway and several witnesses are yet to record their statements.

The prosecution argued that the evidence collection and witness examination process remains incomplete, and releasing the accused could jeopardize the integrity of the proceedings. Police counsel told the court that both Khalid and Imam are connected to crucial witness testimonies and other evidence in the case, making their continued custody necessary for a fair trial.

Delhi Police also cited Supreme Court precedents on bail jurisprudence in its submission, particularly the stringent legal tests applicable in cases registered under the UAPA. The police reminded the court that in such matters, bail can only be granted if the charges do not appear to be prima facie true. The prosecution has urged the High Court to reject both bail applications, maintaining that premature release could compromise the case.

Both Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam have been in judicial custody for an extended period and have approached the court seeking bail. The case stems from the February 2020 riots in northeast Delhi, where police alleged a larger conspiracy. No final judicial conclusion on the charges has been reached yet.