High Court denies bail to Delhi riots accused Salim Malik, facing UAPA charges

New Delhi,UPDATED: Apr 23, 2024 20:27 IST

The Delhi High Court on Monday denied bail to Salim Malik, also known as Munna, in connection with a case relating to the larger conspiracy in the 2020 North-East Delhi riots. The charges against him include those under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Malik is accused of delivering provocative speeches during protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019. He allegedly incited people to join protests against the Central Government, using religion as motivation.

Allegations against Malik include a conspiracy to destroy CCTV cameras in the Chand Bagh area, delivering speeches designed to disrupt religious harmony, and actions that threaten the unity and sovereignty of the country.

The high court denied bail, stating there is sufficient prima facie evidence against him. According to court documents, there is substantial material on record pointing to his involvement as a co-conspirator.

The courts ruled that while public demonstrations are within the rights protected under Article 19(1), when they become violent, damage property, and harm lives, they cross into illegal activity.

While noting the citizens' rights to protest, the court emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and avoiding violence. Meetings at Chand Bagh, attended by Malik, involved open discussions about riot-like violence and burning Delhi, behaviour deemed unacceptable in a democratic country.

Additional observations revealed conversations about financing, arranging arms, procuring petrol bombs for potential homicides, and committing arson. There were also plans for destroying installed CCTV cameras in the area, all contributing to the court's decision to deny Malik bail.