Supreme Court Delays Ruling on Bail for Activists in Delhi Riots Case
New Delhi – The Supreme Court today adjourned hearings for the bail petitions of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel imam, Meeran Haider, and Gulfisha Fatima, all accused in the Delhi riots “larger conspiracy” case, until September 19. The court’s decision comes as the activists remain in custody for over five years, facing charges under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code.
The adjournment was prompted by Justice aravind Kumar’s indication that the bench had only received the case files late last night, at 2:30 AM, hindering their ability to proceed with the hearing. This case centers on allegations that the four, prominent student activists who led protests against the citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in 2019-2020, were involved in formulating a “larger conspiracy” behind the communal violence that erupted in Delhi in February 2020. Their continued detention and the specifics of the alleged conspiracy remain central points of contention.
A bench comprised of Justice Aravind Kumar and justice NV Anjaria heard the matter. Senior Advocates Kapil Sibal and CU Singh represented Khalid,Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi appeared for Fatima, and Siddharth Dave argued on behalf of Imam.
The petitions challenge the Delhi High Court’s September 2nd ruling, which had previously denied bail to the four activists. That decision was delivered by a division bench of Justices Naveen chawla and Shalinder Kaur. The Supreme Court will revisit the arguments concerning the request of UAPA and the evidence presented linking the activists to the riots when hearings resume.
Case Details:
* UMAR KHALID v. STATE OF NCT OF DELHI | SLP(Crl) No. 14165/2025
* GULFISHA FATIMA v STATE (GOVT. OF NCT OF DELHI ) | SLP(Crl) No. 13988/2025
* SHARJEEL IMAM v THE STATE NCT OF DELHI | SLP(Crl) No. 14030/2025
* MEERAN HAIDER v. THE STATE NCT OF DELHI | SLP(Crl) No. 14132/2025