Former JNU student and activist Umar Khalid allegedly utilized social media platforms and his connections with celebrities to amplify his narrative as part of a conspiracy, as per the assertions made by the Delhi Police in court on Tuesday. The police, opposing his bail plea in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots case, claimed that Khalid was involved in a “larger conspiracy,” citing his communications with influential individuals with significant social media followings.
Umar Khalid stands accused of being part of a broader conspiracy linked to the 2020 northeast Delhi communal riots and has been charged under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The arguments against Khalid’s bail application were presented before Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai on Tuesday.
Special Public Prosecutor Amit Prasad stated that Umar Khalid’s mobile phone data revealed his communication with certain actors, politicians, activists, and celebrities, sharing links from specific news portals criticizing the Delhi Police.
The counsel argued that Khalid shared these links with select celebrities and politicians to enhance his narrative on social media, alleging it to be part of a “conspiracy.”
Additionally, the lawyer presented a video clip during the court proceedings, featuring Khalid’s father being interviewed by a news portal.
Quoting Khalid’s father’s statement to the news portal expressing distrust in the Supreme Court, the lawyer highlighted the narrative being constructed in his favor.
The lawyer further mentioned Khalid’s purported request to members of a WhatsApp group to organize protests following a specific Supreme Court proceeding, dismissing Khalid’s plea for parity with other co-accused who have been granted bail.
Following the arguments presented by the Delhi Police against Khalid’s bail, the hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 10.
Khalid, along with several others, faces charges under the anti-terror law UAPA and various sections of the Indian Penal Code for allegedly orchestrating the February 2020 riots, resulting in 53 fatalities and over 700 injuries.