Mumbai: A solidarity programme was held at the Mumbai Patrakar Sangh on September 12 in support of jailed activist Umar Khalid and others incarcerated under the Delhi Conspiracy Case (FIR 59). The case links anti-CAA protests to the communal violence in North-East Delhi in February 2020. The event brought together activists, students, and members of civil society.
The programme began with a documentary screening on Khalid’s political journey and his role in mass movements. Organisers said the gathering aimed to highlight the growing criminalisation of dissent. One of the key discussions focused on Umar Khalid’s Amravati speech, where he pledged non-violence, love, and loyalty to the Constitution. Speakers argued that treating such words as evidence of conspiracy distorted both language and intent.
Speakers also reflected on the struggles of other detainees, including Gulfisha Fatima. Her mother’s words were cited as a reminder of the risks faced by young students who participate in political activism. Fahad Zirar Ahmed, youth president of the NCP, said the state was targeting not only Khalid but also an entire generation of Muslims who mobilised during the CAA-NRC movement.
Veteran filmmaker Anand Patwardhan and actor Swara Bhaskar voiced strong support. Bhaskar criticised the prolonged incarceration without bail and reminded the audience of other cases like Father Stan Swamy and G.N. Saibaba. She argued that bail should be the rule, not the exception.
The event concluded with a petition addressed to the Chief Justice of India, demanding urgent relief for all political prisoners facing charges under FIR 59.
