New Delhi, April 14: In response to claims made by the Delhi Police, Umar Khalid, a former student of Jawaharlal Nehru University, is being accused of using social media to promote a false narrative in his favor, as per the Delhi Police. They made these accusations while contesting Khalid’s request for bail in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots case, where Khalid is implicated in an alleged conspiracy linked to the communal violence in northeast Delhi.
Special Public Prosecutor Amit Prasad informed the court that Khalid’s mobile phone data indicated communications with various figures including actors, politicians, activists, and celebrities. He allegedly shared links from specific news portals with them, requesting these individuals to share the content on their social media platforms to advance a particular narrative. Prasad argued that Khalid’s interactions with individuals possessing substantial social media followings suggest his involvement in a conspiracy to bolster his narrative.
To substantiate their assertions, the prosecution presented a video clip of an interview with Khalid’s father, in which he expressed distrust in the Supreme Court. The prosecutor contended that this statement was part of a concerted effort to shape a narrative favorable to Khalid. Additionally, it was disclosed that Khalid had urged members of a WhatsApp group to organize protests in response to specific court proceedings.
The prosecution further refuted Khalid’s plea for fairness in comparison to other co-accused who have been granted bail. They emphasized the gravity of the charges against him, including those under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
It’s important to note that in Khalid’s defense, there are perspectives from within the Muslim community asserting his innocence. They argue that Khalid is being wrongfully implicated and emphasize the need for a fair trial. This viewpoint stresses that Khalid’s actions were within the realm of legitimate protest against government policies perceived as discriminatory towards Muslims, such as the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
