"Founder of 'United Against Hate', Khalid Saifi has approached the Delhi High Court against the invocation of the charge of attempt to murder against him in the case related the communal riots that took place in the city in February 2020. Saifi's lawyer argued that the charge cannot be framed as he was not in possession of any weapon and the alleged gunshot cannot be attributed to him. However, the court has stated that there is evidence of Saifi's presence and provocation at the incident site, making it difficult to entertain his plea."
Delhi Riots: Khalid Saifi Challenges Attempt to Murder Charge
On February 24, 2023, Khalid Saifi, founder of the 'United Against Hate' group, filed a petition in the Delhi High Court challenging the addition of an attempt to murder charge against him in the Delhi riots case of February 2020.
Background
The Delhi riots erupted in February 2020 over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), a controversial law that grants citizenship to illegal immigrants from neighboring countries, excluding Muslims. The violence resulted in the deaths of 53 people and the destruction of property worth millions of rupees.
Saifi was arrested on February 26, 2020, for his alleged involvement in the riots. He was initially charged with rioting, unlawful assembly, and promoting communal disharmony. However, in October 2020, the police added the charge of attempt to murder to his case.
Current Case
Saifi's lawyer, Rebecca John, argued before the Delhi High Court that the charge of attempt to murder was unfounded because her client was not in possession of any weapon during the riots. She also claimed that the alleged gunshot, which led to the charge, cannot be attributed to Saifi.
The prosecution, however, argued that there was sufficient evidence linking Saifi to the incident site and that his actions had incited violence. The court acknowledged the prosecution's arguments but stated that it was difficult to entertain Saifi's plea without further evidence. The court has adjourned the hearing to allow the prosecution time to file a written response.
Top 5 FAQs
Q1: What is the significance of the attempt to murder charge against Khalid Saifi? A1: The attempt to murder charge can carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, which is far more severe than the other charges against Saifi.
Q2: Why is Saifi challenging the charge? A2: Saifi's lawyers argue that there is no evidence to support the charge and that he was not involved in any violence during the riots.
Q3: What are the implications of the court's decision? A3: If the court upholds the attempt to murder charge, Saifi could face a lengthy prison sentence. Conversely, if the court dismisses the charge, it could strengthen Saifi's case and weaken the prosecution's arguments.
Q4: What is the current status of the Delhi riots case? A4: The trial in the Delhi riots case is currently ongoing in various courts. Several accused have already been convicted, while others are still awaiting trial.
Q5: What is the significance of the 'United Against Hate' group? A5: The 'United Against Hate' group was formed in response to the Delhi riots to promote peace and communal harmony. Saifi is one of the founders and organizers of the group.
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