New Delhi: JNU scholar Sharjeel Imam has applied for interim bail to contest the upcoming Bihar Assembly election as an independent candidate. Imam, who has been in Tihar Jail for more than five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, moved the plea before Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai at Karkardooma Courts.
Imam requested bail for two weeks, from October 15 to October 29. He said he needs this period to file his nomination papers and campaign in Bahadurganj constituency in Bihar. The nomination deadline is October 20 for the 18th Bihar Legislative Assembly elections.
In his petition, Imam identified himself as a political prisoner and student activist. He said that only his younger brother is available to help with election formalities and to care for their ill mother. He argued that temporary release would allow him to personally complete the nomination process, which requires the candidate’s presence.
The Delhi High Court had earlier rejected his regular bail plea in September 2025. His appeal against that decision is pending before the Supreme Court. Imam was charged in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case, which invoked several provisions of UAPA.
The court is expected to hear his interim bail plea this week. His case has drawn attention from civil rights groups and legal observers who question prolonged detentions under anti-terror laws.
