2020 Delhi Riots Case: Court Allows Sharjeel Imam 10-Day Interim Bail

More than six years after the violence that shook parts of Delhi in 2020, developments in the riots conspiracy case continue in court. In the latest order, a Delhi court has granted 10 days of interim bail to activist Sharjeel Imam, one of the accused in the case linked to the unrest.

The temporary relief was granted by Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai at the Karkardooma Courts. The court allowed Imam to step out of custody for a limited period so he can attend his brother's wedding and take care of his ailing mother. After the 10-day period ends, he has been directed to surrender before the court as per the conditions of the order.

The case stems from the large-scale riots that erupted in northeast Delhi in February 2020, when clashes, arson and vandalism spread across several neighbourhoods. The violence left dozens dead and many others injured, while homes, shops and public property were damaged.

Investigators have argued that the riots were not a spontaneous outbreak but the result of a broader conspiracy involving several individuals who allegedly mobilised crowds and encouraged protests that later turned violent. Imam has been named among the accused in cases connected to the unrest.

Earlier during the proceedings, the court framed charges against him in connection with incidents linked to protests around Jamia Millia Islamia. A speech delivered near the university on December 13, 2019, also became part of the case record. Prosecutors told the court that the speech called for a "chakka jam", or blockade of public movement, which they claim contributed to the build-up of tensions.

Imam faces multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code, including criminal conspiracy, abetment, rioting, unlawful assembly and promoting enmity between groups. He has also been booked under provisions of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act in connection with alleged damage caused during the riots.

The court has made it clear that the bail is temporary and limited to family circumstances, while the trial in the Delhi riots conspiracy case continues.