Thu Jan 08 22:32:38 UTC 2026: # Imam Denies Coordination with Khalid in Delhi Riots Case, Claims No Connection
The Story:
Activist Sharjeel Imam, an accused in the 2020 Delhi riots case, asserted in a Delhi court on January 8, 2026, that Umar Khalid is not his mentor and refuted police allegations of coordination between them regarding the riots. This statement comes after both Imam and Khalid were denied bail by the Supreme Court in a case registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), related to the alleged “larger conspiracy” behind the riots.
Imam’s counsel, Talib Mustafa, emphasized to Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai at Karkardooma Courts that his client and Khalid had no connection, claiming they never spoke in five years at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). He disputed the police claim that Khalid instructed Imam, during a hearing on framing charges in the North East Delhi riots-2020 larger conspiracy case, which involves 18 accused booked under UAPA and other charges.
Key Points:
- Sharjeel Imam denies any coordination or connection with Umar Khalid in the 2020 Delhi riots case.
- Both Imam and Khalid were denied bail by the Supreme Court in the UAPA case.
- Imam’s counsel claims he and Khalid never spoke during their time at JNU.
- The denial of bail comes despite the Supreme Court granting bail to five other accused in the same case on January 5, 2026.
- Imam and Khalid are accused in the “larger conspiracy” behind the riots, where over 50 died.
Key Takeaways:
- The ongoing legal proceedings highlight the complexities and contested narratives surrounding the 2020 Delhi riots.
- The denial of bail to Imam and Khalid, while others are granted bail, suggests the court views their alleged roles as more significant.
- The case continues to be a focal point of contention, with implications for free speech, political activism, and the application of UAPA.
First Piper 