The Karkardooma court in Delhi denied former JNU student leader Umar Khalid’s request for bail in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case. Khalid had requested regular bail, claiming that the court system was taking too long and that he should be treated equally to other co-accused who had already received bail. But after hearing arguments from both sides, the court rejected Khalid’s plea.
Opposition and allegations
The defence team for Khalid argued that the Delhi police charge sheet had no allegations of terrorism against him. They contended that there was insufficient evidence to substantiate any misconduct and that Khalid’s name was only mentioned. They also said that Khalid was the target of a smear campaign by the media, which they claimed was swaying public opinion against him.
Prosecution’s Stand and Social Media Influence
Khalid’s bail request, however, was vigorously challenged by the prosecution, who dismissed it as unfounded and unworthy. They offered proof that Khalid was responsible for planning protests at several different sites, which they claimed fueled the disturbances. Khalid’s purported use of social media platforms to manipulate public opinion and affect legal procedures was also brought up by the prosecution. Khalid’s defense presented arguments, but the judge rejected them and denied Khalid bail.
The Road Ahead
After his bail request was denied, Umar Khalid will now have to fight the Delhi riots case in court. The seriousness of the charges against him and the complexity of the inquiry are highlighted by the court’s ruling. As the court process progresses, Khalid’s legal team will probably persist in vehemently defending his innocence, while the prosecution endeavors to prove his purported involvement in the prelude to the 2020 Delhi riots.
