2020 DELHI RIOTS BAIL CASE SC raps police for delay, refuses more time on bail pleas of Khalid, Imam

The Supreme Court on Monday sharply rebuked the Delhi Police for failing to file its response to the bail pleas of activists Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, Gulfisha Fatima, and Meeran Haider, all accused in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

- OUR CORRESPONDENT

A bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and N V Anjaria refused to grant the police an additional two weeks to respond, the court said it would proceed with the hearing on October 31, questioning the need for further delay in bail matters where the accused have already spent more than five years in jail.

"Frankly speaking, in bail matters there is no question of filing a counter," the bench remarked, noting that the Delhi Police had been given sufficient time earlier. “We have given you enough time. Last time, while issuing notice, we said in open court that we will hear this matter on October 27 and will dispose it off,” Justice Kumar said.