New Delhi [India]: The Delhi High Court on Friday heard arguments on the bail pleas of Umar Khalid and Meeran Haider, who have sought bail citing parity with co-accused, delay in trial, and prolonged incarceration.
The case was presented before a division bench comprising Justices Navin Chawla and Shalinder Kaur. The Delhi Police sought time to respond to the submissions made by the accused, and the next hearing is scheduled for December 12.
Arguments Presented by Umar Khalid’s Counsel
Senior Advocate Tridip Pais, representing Umar Khalid, argued for bail based on parity with co-accused Natasha Narwal, Devangana Kalita, Asif Iqbal Tanha, and Ishrat Jahan, who have already been granted bail.
He also highlighted the alleged delay in trial and long incarceration, noting that Khalid has been in custody since September 2020.
Regarding the Delhi Police’s allegations that Khalid attended a “secret meeting” in Seelampur, Pais questioned the credibility of the evidence.
“Why would a person post the photos of a secret meeting on Facebook? Natasha Narwal and Devangana Kalita attended the meeting, and there was no violence after it,” he argued.
Pais emphasized the similarity of roles assigned to Khalid and the other accused, stating this warranted a grant of bail on the grounds of parity.
Arguments for Meeran Haider
Advocate Sri Singh, appearing for Meeran Haider, emphasized Haider’s background as a student leader and his participation in elections as a political candidate.
Singh pointed out the prolonged delay in the trial, citing that the police have filed a main charge sheet along with four supplementary charge sheets.
“He has been in custody for the last 4 and a half years,” argued Singh, underscoring the need for bail.
Court History and Parity Claims
The defense highlighted that Natasha Narwal, Devangana Kalita, and Asif Iqbal Tanha were granted bail by the High Court, while Ishrat Jahan received bail from the trial court. Umar Khalid’s regular bail plea was previously dismissed on May 28, 2024, along with an earlier plea.
The High Court will continue deliberating the matter on December 12, as it awaits a response from the Delhi Police.