Keep Accused Jailed Until Trial Ends: Solicitor General Urges Delhi HC in 2020 Riots Case

Fast Summary

• Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta argued before the Delhi High Court against bail pleas of accused individuals in the February 2020 riots case, stating that those acting “against the nation” should remain incarcerated until convicted or acquitted.
• The riots resulted in one police personnel’s death,injuries to 100 other officers,and harm to 41 civilians.
• The accused include Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and several others; currently facing charges under UAPA and IPC for allegedly masterminding a “larger conspiracy.”
• Mr. Mehta called the police investigation “one of the finest,” with 58 statements recorded before a Magistrate.
• Sharjeel Imam argued he was disconnected from the riot areas and did not incite unrest via WhatsApp communication with co-accused members.
• A separate Delhi HC Bench expressed concern about delays in charge framing over five years despite 700 witnesses involved in this case.

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