In a notable development, a Delhi court has granted interim bail to Umar Khalid, an accused in the Delhi riots conspiracy case, allowing him to attend his cousin’s wedding. Khalid, who has been in custody since September 2020 under charges including criminal conspiracy and offences under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), will be released for seven days from December 28 to January 3.
Judge Sameer Bajpai of the Karkardooma court ruled on Wednesday, stating:
“Considering the fact that the applicant wishes to attend the marriage of his first cousin and meet his relatives, the court deems it just and appropriate to grant him the desired relief.”
As part of the bail conditions, Khalid is required to furnish a personal bond of ₹20,000 along with two sureties of the same amount. The court has also imposed strict conditions on his release:
- He is prohibited from using social media.
- He must not contact any witnesses or individuals connected to the case.
- He is directed to restrict his movements to his house or venues where the wedding ceremonies are scheduled.
Khalid’s regular bail plea has faced multiple rejections, first by the trial court in March 2022 and subsequently by the Delhi High Court in October 2022. An appeal to the Supreme Court in 2023 led to prolonged adjournments, and Khalid eventually withdrew his plea in February 2024 citing changed circumstances.
The trial court rejected another bail plea in May 2024, prompting Khalid to file a fresh appeal before the High Court, which remains pending. Meanwhile, the interim relief granted on Wednesday allows him a brief respite to partake in his family’s celebrations.
This temporary relief comes amidst an ongoing legal battle, with Khalid’s future court hearings closely watched by legal and political observers.
