New Delhi: Umar Khalid, former JNU student leader and a vocal advocate for justice and constitutional rights, has been granted interim bail to attend his cousin’s wedding. The Karkardooma Court allowed Khalid a seven-day reprieve, from December 28 to January 3, marking a brief moment of relief in his prolonged judicial custody.
Khalid has been imprisoned since September 14, 2020, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the alleged conspiracy behind the 2020 Northeast Delhi riots. Despite being a staunch supporter of democratic values and peace, he has remained behind bars, raising questions about the misuse of draconian laws against activists and dissenters.
The ongoing legal proceedings have drawn significant attention, with many rights organisations and legal experts expressing concern over the nature of the charges and the evidence presented against Khalid. Critics argue that his arrest under the UAPA reflects a troubling trend of silencing dissent and criminalising democratic expression.
Khalid’s consistent call for unity and his advocacy for constitutional values have earned him respect among those who value democracy and human rights. His interim bail is seen as a small step toward justice for someone who has long been targeted for his fearless articulation of dissent.
The Delhi High Court is still deliberating Khalid’s regular bail plea, alongside that of activist Sharjeel Imam. The case has become a litmus test for the judicial system’s ability to uphold the rights of individuals accused under stringent laws like the UAPA.
While Khalid’s temporary release is limited to a personal occasion, it highlights the need for a broader examination of the charges against him. Many continue to hope for his permanent release, emphasising the importance of protecting democratic voices in India’s evolving political landscape.
