Delhi High Court Defers Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam Bail Pleas to September 30

The Delhi High Court on Monday, September 21, 2026, deferred the hearing of bail pleas filed by Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the case linked to the alleged larger conspiracy behind the February 2020 north-east Delhi riots.

A division bench comprising Justice Prathiba M Singh and Justice Dinesh Bhatt listed the matters for hearing on September 30 after the prosecution sought an adjournment. Special Public Prosecutor Madhukar Pandey told the court that Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, who is appearing for the State, was unavailable due to health reasons.

Bail hearing moved to September 30

The court recorded that the matter was being adjourned to September 30. The two petitioners are challenging the rejection of their bail applications in proceedings under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, or UAPA.

According to reports from the hearing, Khalid has challenged the rejection of his third bail plea, while Imam has also challenged the refusal of bail. The Delhi Police has opposed their pleas.

Background to the case

The case concerns allegations relating to the larger conspiracy behind the February 2020 violence in north-east Delhi. The allegations are being contested and remain subject to the judicial process.

Khalid was arrested in September 2020 and Imam was arrested in August 2020 in connection with the case. Earlier court proceedings have included multiple bail applications and orders concerning the accused.

The next hearing before the Delhi High Court is scheduled for September 30, 2026.