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Delhi Court Cancels Sharjeel Imam’s Interim Bail Over Media Contact Breach

Judge Rules Presence During Brother’s Interview Violated Bail Conditions

Imam Ordered to Surrender; Case Linked to 2020 Delhi Riots Conspiracy

By Legal Reporter

New Delhi: October 12, 2026:

A Delhi court has cancelled activist Sharjeel Imam’s interim bail in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case, ruling that he violated a condition prohibiting contact with media persons. The court directed him to surrender by Saturday evening, reinforcing strict bail conditions under UAPA.

Case Details

• Court Order: On October 10, 2026, Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai cancelled Imam’s seven-day interim bail, originally granted to attend his cousin’s wedding.
• Violation: Imam was found present in the same room while a journalist interviewed his brother. The court held this amounted to “contact with media persons,” breaching bail conditions.
• Defense Argument: His counsel argued Imam did not interact with the journalist and that the interview was solely given by his brother. The court rejected this, citing video evidence showing Imam’s presence.
• Prosecution’s Plea: The Delhi Police alleged Imam “wilfully and deliberately” violated bail conditions, misusing the liberty granted.

Background

• Charges: Imam faces serious allegations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code, accused of being a key conspirator in the 2020 Delhi riots.
• Arrest: He was arrested on January 28, 2020, and has remained in custody for over five years.
• Supreme Court Rulings: Earlier this year, the Supreme Court denied regular bail to Imam and Umar Khalid, stressing that delay in trial cannot justify bail in UAPA cases.
• Riots Context: The February 2020 riots in northeast Delhi left 53 people dead and over 700 injured, following protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

Legal Implications

• Strict Bail Conditions: Courts have consistently imposed restrictions on UAPA accused, including bans on social media use and media contact.
• Hierarchy of Culpability: The Supreme Court previously noted Imam and Khalid’s alleged roles placed them on a “different footing” compared to other accused who were granted bail.
• Future Proceedings: Imam may renew his bail plea after one year or once protected witnesses are examined, as per Supreme Court directions.

FAQs

Q1: Why was Sharjeel Imam’s interim bail cancelled?

Because he was found present during a journalist’s interview with his brother, violating the condition against media contact.

Q2: What were the bail conditions imposed?

He was prohibited from using social media and interacting with media persons during his temporary release.

Q3: What charges does Imam face?

He is accused under UAPA and IPC provisions of being a key conspirator in the 2020 Delhi riots.

Q4: Has Imam been granted bail before?

Yes, he was previously granted short-term interim bail for family events, but his regular bail plea was rejected by the Supreme Court.

Q5: What’s next in his case?

He must surrender immediately, and his legal team may renew bail applications after one year or once key witnesses are examined.

This case underscores the stringent bail conditions under UAPA and the judiciary’s cautious approach in balancing personal liberty with national security concerns.