New Delhi: After five years behind bars, activist Umar Khalid’s bail plea was once again rejected, reigniting debate over the criminalisation of dissent in India. Khalid, arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), has been accused of involvement in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy, despite his alleged role being limited to speeches critical of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Khalid is among several activists, including Sharjeel Imam, Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, and Khalid Saifi, who continue to face prolonged incarceration under UAPA. Rights groups argue their speeches and protests were democratic expressions, not terrorism, while ruling party leaders accused of delivering openly incendiary remarks during the same period have faced no comparable legal consequences.

Critics say the case highlights a paradox of justice—where dissenters are punished with indefinite imprisonment while those in power walk free. The rejection of Khalid’s bail underscores concerns that the law is being used less as a safeguard and more as a weapon against political critics.