New Delhi: Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui has appealed to the High Court, challenging a decision by the Sessions Court that sentenced him to 12 years in prison in a religious conversion case. The appeal, filed by his legal team, claims that the lower court disregarded critical evidence and witness testimonies that could have proven his innocence.
During the hearing, Maulana Kaleem’s lawyer, Advocate Vikrant Tiwari, argued that the Sessions Court’s ruling was not only disproportionate but also inhumane. He pointed out that despite substantial evidence and witness support in favor of Maulana Kaleem, these were overlooked, leading to an unjust verdict.
The case revolves around allegations that Maulana Kaleem and his associates were involved in forced religious conversions. The prosecution has accused them of pressuring individuals to convert to Islam and offering financial incentives to those who did. The case has drawn widespread attention, especially in light of the stringent anti-conversion laws enacted in 2021.
The defense hopes for either a reduced sentence or complete exoneration. The High Court is expected to announce the hearing date soon.
