The Supreme Court refuses bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case under UAPA. Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra posts a poem backing Khalid.

In a key judicial ruling, the Supreme Court of India on January 5, 2026 declined to grant bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the case concerning the alleged “larger conspiracy” behind the 2020 North East Delhi riots. Both are accused under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

The apex court held that the seriousness of the allegations justified continued judicial custody at this stage. The decision came after extended arguments, with the prosecution strongly opposing bail on grounds related to the nature and gravity of the charges.

Following the verdict, Mahua Moitra expressed solidarity with Khalid by sharing a poem on X titled “You Will Rise, Umar Khalid.” The post added a political note to the legal development, drawing attention across social media platforms.

The order reinforces the high threshold for bail under UAPA, a point of ongoing legal and civil rights debate. Public reactions from political leaders indicate how closely such cases are watched beyond courtrooms. The ruling is likely to further fuel discussions on preventive detention and the balance between national security and personal liberty.