Now Reading: Over 100 citizens urge CJI to act on Khalid, Imam detention
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Over 100 citizens urge CJI to act on Khalid, Imam detention
More than 100 writers, academics, filmmakers and activists have urged Chief Justice of India Surya Kant to intervene in the continued detention of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam. The two have been…
The Story in Brief
More than 100 writers, academics, filmmakers and activists have urged Chief Justice of India Surya Kant to intervene in the continued detention of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam. The two have been jailed for nearly six years without trial in the case linked to the 2020 North-East Delhi riots, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
The open letter cites the Supreme Court’s 2021 K.A. Najeeb judgment, which held that prolonged detention can breach the right to a speedy trial. It says the prosecution has listed about 900 witnesses, while the trial has not begun. The signatories also referred to later scrutiny of a January 2026 bail ruling in the Syed Iftikhar Andrabi judgment.
The Indian Opinion
Claims that detention alone proves guilt are as careless as claims that the allegations need no judicial testing. The real issue is whether a trial with about 900 witnesses can begin within a reasonable period, and whether UAPA safeguards are being applied consistently. The Supreme Court’s treatment of the pending bail issue, rather than public campaigning by either side, will show whether “bail is the rule” has practical force.
Sources (2): thehindu.com, thenewsminute.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
