New Delhi: The Supreme Court (SC) of India on Monday, October 27, 2025, pulled up the Delhi Police for failing to file a reply to the bail pleas of activists Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, Gulfisha Fatima, and three others, who are accused in the larger conspiracy case related to the 2020 North East Delhi riots. The bench, comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and N.V. Anjaria, expressed concern over the prolonged incarceration, noting that the accused have already spent approximately five years in jail without a trial.

The Court’s Observation on Delay

The matter was listed for hearing after the petitioners challenged the Delhi High Court’s September 2, 2025, order denying them bail in the case registered under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

During Monday’s proceedings, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju, appearing for the Delhi Police, requested two more weeks to file a counter-affidavit (reply) to the appeals. This request was met with a sharp remark from the bench, which noted that sufficient time had already been granted and that, “Frankly speaking, in bail matters there is no question of filing counter.”

Justice Aravind Kumar addressed the ASG, stating, “On Friday, you ensure you have proper instructions… we will hear it. See if you can Mr. Raju… if something can be done… this is only about consideration of bail. See 5 years are over already.” This observation underscored the court’s concern regarding the substantial pre-trial detention period the accused have already undergone.

Key Case Details and Next Steps

• Accused: Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Mohd Saleem Khan, Shifa Ur Rehman, Athar Khan, Abdul Khalid Saifi, and Shadab Ahmed. They are facing charges under the UAPA and various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
• Allegation: The police allege the accused were the “masterminds” behind a “premeditated and well-orchestrated conspiracy” that led to the February 2020 Delhi riots, which resulted in 53 deaths and hundreds of injuries.
• High Court Order: The Delhi High Court had rejected the bail pleas, observing that “conspiratorial” violence under the garb of demonstrations or protests could not be permitted, and the accused’s role in the conspiracy was prima facie grave.
• Supreme Court Notice: The SC had issued notice to the Delhi Police on September 22, 2025, seeking a response to the appeals.
• Adjournment: Despite the ASG’s request for two weeks, the Supreme Court deferred the matter to Friday, October 31, 2025, directing the Delhi Police to ensure they have proper instructions for the hearing.

The Supreme Court adjourns bail pleas of Sharjeel Imam, Umar Khalid in Delhi riots case. This video provides background context on the bail proceedings of the accused activists.