SC Denies Bail To Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam; SPP Rajat Nair Calls It 'Fair Verdict'

In a significant development, the Supreme Court has denied bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the Delhi riots larger conspiracy case while granting relief to five other accused. Speaking to India Today, Special Public Prosecutor Rajat Nair termed the order a ‘very, very fair verdict’ and a ‘landmark judgment’ that clarifies the application of the UAPA. Nair highlighted that the top court distinguished between ‘main actors’ who conspired to galvanize the movement and ‘side actors’ or facilitators. The Court also observed that delay in trial cannot be a ‘trump card’ for bail in serious offences. The verdict comes amidst discussions on a letter from the newly elected New York mayor regarding Khalid.