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Delhi Police Seeks Cancellation of Sharjeel Imam’s Interim Bail in Delhi Riots Case

Police allege violation of bail conditions after Imam’s interaction with media.

Accused faces charges under UAPA for alleged role in 2020 riots conspiracy.

By Legal Reporter

New Delhi: October 10, 2026:

Delhi Police has moved a Delhi court seeking cancellation of interim bail granted to student activist Sharjeel Imam in the 2020 Delhi riots larger conspiracy case under UAPA, alleging he violated bail conditions by interacting with media persons. The plea argues Imam misused the liberty granted by the court.

Case Background

• Sharjeel Imam, a former JNU research scholar, is accused in the larger conspiracy case linked to the 2020 North-East Delhi riots.
• He faces charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code.
• Imam was granted interim bail twice:
  • March 20–30, 2026 to attend his brother’s wedding.
  • October 4–10, 2026 to attend his cousin’s wedding.

Delhi Police’s Plea

• Violation alleged: Imam was seen in a video interacting with media persons during his bail period.
• Condition breached: He was directed not to use social media or interact with media while on bail.
• Police’s argument:
  • His conduct was “wilful and deliberate.”
  • He “abused the liberty” granted by the court.
  • Bail conditions were imposed to prevent misuse, but Imam disregarded them.

Judicial Context

• The Karkardooma Court had granted interim bail under specific conditions.
• Imam is among several accused in FIR 59/2020, including Umar Khalid, Tahir Hussain, Khalid Saifi, Gulfisha Fatima, Devangana Kalita, Natasha Narwal, and Safoora Zargar.
• Many co-accused have secured bail at different stages, but Imam and Khalid remain in custody under UAPA.

Broader Implications

• Legal precedent: Courts have repeatedly emphasized strict compliance with bail conditions in UAPA cases.
• Trial delays: Despite over six years since the riots, charges are still being contested, raising concerns about prolonged incarceration.
• Public debate: The case continues to spark discussions on civil liberties, anti-CAA protests, and the scope of UAPA.

FAQs

Q1: Why did Delhi Police seek cancellation of Imam’s bail?

Because he allegedly violated bail conditions by interacting with media persons.

Q2: What were the bail conditions?

He was barred from using social media and from interacting with media during his interim bail.

Q3: What is Imam accused of?

He is accused of being part of the “larger conspiracy” behind the 2020 Delhi riots, charged under UAPA and IPC.

Q4: Has Imam been granted bail before?

Yes, twice for family events, but only on interim basis with strict conditions.

Q5: What happens next?

The court will hear Delhi Police’s plea; if accepted, Imam’s interim bail will be cancelled, and he will return to custody.