Delhi High Court Issues Notice on Former JNU Scholar Umar Khalid's Bail Plea

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the Delhi Police on the bail plea filed by former JNU scholar Umar Khalid, seeking the investigating agency's response in the larger conspiracy case linked to the 2020 northeast Delhi riots.

A division bench took up Khalid's appeal challenging the trial court's order and directed the Delhi Police to file its reply before the next hearing. The matter will now proceed after the police places its response on record.

Khalid is an accused in the larger conspiracy case being investigated under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the February 2020 northeast Delhi riots. He has been in judicial custody for several years while facing trial.

The latest proceedings come after a series of legal developments in the case. Earlier this year, the Supreme Court declined to grant regular bail to Khalid, observing that there was a prima facie case against him under the UAPA. However, the apex court had indicated that he could seek fresh relief if there was a material change in circumstances.

In his latest plea, Khalid has argued that subsequent judicial developments constitute a change in circumstances warranting reconsideration of his bail application. The Delhi Police is expected to oppose the plea when the matter is heard next.

The 2020 northeast Delhi riots left 53 people dead and hundreds injured, leading to multiple investigations and prosecutions. The conspiracy case has involved several activists and former student leaders, with proceedings continuing before various courts.

The High Court's issuance of notice is a procedural step and does not amount to a decision on the merits of Khalid's bail application. The court will consider submissions from both sides before deciding whether he should be granted bail.