The Delhi Police has vehemently opposed the bail plea of accused in the Delhi riots case, citing the stringent provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). ASG Chetan Sharma argued that the accused were part of a clinical, pathological and planned conspiracy by forces inimical to India, and referred to Supreme Court verdicts to support his argument. The accused, including Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, have been in prison for many years and have sought bail citing delay in trial. However, Sharma blamed them for the delay and argued that mere delay cannot be a ground for bail under UAPA.
The Delhi Riots Case: Bail Denied Amidst UAPA Allegations
Background
In February 2020, communal riots erupted in Delhi, claiming the lives of 53 people and injuring hundreds more. Several individuals were arrested in connection with the violence, including Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, who have been charged under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Delhi Police's Opposition to Bail
The Delhi Police has vehemently opposed the bail plea of the accused, arguing that they were involved in a "clinical, pathological, and planned conspiracy" by forces hostile to India. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma cited Supreme Court verdicts to support his argument that bail cannot be granted under UAPA due to the seriousness of the offenses alleged.
Accused's Arguments for Bail
Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam have spent many years in prison awaiting trial. They have argued for bail, citing the delay in their trial proceedings. However, ASG Sharma blamed the accused for the delay, arguing that they had been engaging in dilatory tactics.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What is the UAPA? The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) is an Indian anti-terrorism law that grants sweeping powers to law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting terrorist-related offenses.
2. What are the allegations against Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam? Khalid and Imam have been charged under UAPA for allegedly conspiring to incite violence during the Delhi riots. They are accused of making inflammatory speeches and encouraging protesters to take up arms.
3. Why is the Delhi Police opposing bail for the accused? The Delhi Police argues that the accused are a flight risk and that their release on bail could jeopardize the ongoing investigation. They also maintain that the seriousness of the charges warrants denial of bail.
4. What are the arguments in favor of granting bail? The accused argue that they have strong roots in the community and are not likely to abscond. They also contend that the delay in their trial violates their right to a speedy trial.
5. What is the status of the bail hearing? The Delhi High Court is currently hearing the bail plea of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam. The court will consider the arguments of both the prosecution and the defense before making a decision.
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