Delhi Court Grants Umar Khalid Interim Bail for Sister’s Wedding

A Delhi court has granted interim bail to former JNU scholar Umar Khalid. He is an accused in the high-profile 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case. The bail allows him to attend his sister’s wedding later this month.

According to court documents reported by Bar and Bench, the order was passed on Thursday. Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai approved the temporary release. This decision provides a brief respite for Khalid, who has been jailed since 2020 under the stringent UAPA law.

Bail Conditions and Legal Context of the Case

The court set specific conditions for his temporary release. Khalid must furnish a personal bond and two sureties of Rs. 20,000 each. He is also directed not to use any social media platforms during this period.

His interactions are restricted to meeting only family, relatives, and friends. The bail period runs from December 16 to December 29. His sister’s wedding is scheduled for December 27.

This is not the first such reprieve. Khalid was previously granted a seven-day bail in December 2024. That was to attend his cousin’s wedding. His current bail plea requested time from December 14, but the court granted a slightly shorter period.

Ongoing Trial and Supreme Court Awaits Verdict

The legal proceedings against Khalid and others continue. Delhi Police have labeled them as alleged masterminds of the 2020 riots. The violence resulted in 53 deaths and over 700 injuries.

The Supreme Court recently reserved its verdict on the regular bail pleas of Khalid and five other accused. This interim bail is separate from that pending decision. The trial itself is expected to take up to two more years to complete.

The case is complex, involving charges of conspiracy under the UAPA. These are in addition to charges of rioting and unlawful assembly. The allegations stem from protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC).

The grant of interim bail to Umar Khalid highlights the balance courts seek between legal process and humanitarian considerations. His longer-term fate, however, remains tied to the Supreme Court’s upcoming ruling and the pace of the larger trial.

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Who is Umar Khalid?

Umar Khalid is a former JNU student and activist. He was arrested in September 2020. He faces serious charges under the UAPA for his alleged role in the Delhi riots conspiracy.

Why was he granted bail this time?

The court granted interim bail specifically for a family event. He requested leave to attend his sister’s wedding. The judge considered it a reasonable humanitarian ground.

What are the main charges against him?

He is charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The charges include criminal conspiracy and rioting. The case relates to the 2020 Delhi riots.

What is the status of the main trial?

The main trial is ongoing in a Delhi court. Delhi Police informed the Supreme Court it may take two more years. Several co-accused are also awaiting trial.

Has he been granted bail before?

Yes, but only for short, temporary periods. He was granted bail for seven days in December 2024. That was also for a family wedding.

What happens after his interim bail ends?

He must surrender to the authorities by December 29. He will return to judicial custody. He will await the Supreme Court’s decision on his regular bail plea.