2020 Delhi Riots: Court Grants Interim Bail to Meeran Haider

A Delhi court has granted a 10-day interim bail on humanitarian grounds to Jamia Millia Islamia student Meeran Haider in a UAPA case related to an alleged conspiracy behind the 2020 riots in the city.

The court imposed conditions on Haider, including a prohibition on speaking or giving interviews to the media, including social media platforms, and a restriction against meeting the general public.

Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai was hearing Haider’s plea for a four-week interim bail. The court acknowledged that the plea was moved on humanitarian grounds, citing the absence of a male family member to support Haider’s sister, who had recently lost a premature child. The court also noted that Haider had been in custody since April 1, 2020, without previously seeking interim bail.

In its order issued on Saturday, the court stated that the prosecution had verified the facts presented by Haider. Granting the application, the court said, “The applicant is granted interim bail for 10 days subject to furnishing a personal bond of Rs 20,000 with one surety in the like amount.”

Additional conditions for the interim relief included prohibitions against contacting any witnesses, tampering with evidence, and a requirement to provide his mobile phone number to the investigating officer. “During the interim bail period, the accused shall not talk or give any interview to any media, including social media,” the court ordered, adding, “He shall not meet the general public.”