The Supreme Court of India expressed sharp disapproval toward the Delhi Police for failing to respond to the bail pleas of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and several others accused in the 2020 North-East Delhi riots conspiracy case.
A Bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and N.V. Anjaria observed that despite being granted ample time, the Delhi Police had not filed its response. The Court remarked that such indifference in bail matters—especially those involving prolonged detention—is unacceptable. The judges pointed out that many of the accused have already spent nearly five years in custody and that justice cannot be held hostage to administrative delay.
The Bench directed that the matter be heard on Friday, warning the Delhi Police to come prepared with their instructions. The Court stressed that timely responses from investigative agencies are vital in ensuring fair and efficient judicial proceedings.
The case stems from the large-scale violence that erupted in North-East Delhi in February 2020. The accused, including former JNU student leaders Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, have been charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and various sections of the Indian Penal Code for allegedly conspiring to incite the riots.
The Supreme Court’s observations signal a growing judicial impatience with procedural delays that compromise individual liberty. By pulling up the Delhi Police, the Court reaffirmed that accountability and diligence from law enforcement are essential to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is neither delayed nor denied.
The post Delhi Riots Case:Supreme Court rebukes Delhi Police for delay in responding to bail pleas of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam appeared first on India Legal.