Supreme court denied bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in Delhi riots 2020.

On 5 January 2026 Supreme Court of India delivered the reserved order denying the bail to two accused Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in Delhi riots 2020. The other 5 accused in the same case — Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa Ur Rehman, Mohd Saleem Khan and Shadab Ahmed — were granted bail by the Court.

The bail was denied based on the observation that the material on record suggests involvement in planning, mobilization and strategic direction in the Delhi riots. A prima facie case is made out, meaning the prosecution’s case against them is substantial enough to deny bail at this stage.

The Court stated that they can renew their bail applications after the examination of protected witnesses or after one year from today. The Supreme Court also clarified that denial of bail does not mean conviction and trial will continue with the accused in custody.

The bail to 5 other are on following conditions:

1. ₹2 lakh personal bond with two local sureties each

2. Restricted to Delhi (NCT); cannot leave without trial court permission

3. Passports to be surrendered; immigration authorities alerted to prevent exit

4. Must share address, phone, email; prior notice required for any change

5. Mandatory police attendance twice a week (Monday & Thursday)

6. No contact or influence over witnesses or related persons

7. No association with groups linked to the case

8. Bar on public statements or social media posts related to the case

9. No participation in rallies, meetings or public programmes

10. No circulation of posters, banners or handbills

11. Must cooperate with trial and attend all hearings

12. Maintain peace and good conduct; bail can be cancelled if violated

The verdict distinguishes their alleged roles in riots from others in the case, hence the difference in bail decisions.