A Delhi court granted activist Sharjeel Imam a 10-day interim bail on Monday, allowing him to participate in his brother’s wedding scheduled for March 25. This decision comes amidst the ongoing conspiracy case linked to the 2020 Delhi riots, which saw significant communal violence erupt in North East Delhi.

Imam, who has been imprisoned since January 2020, is accused of playing a role in orchestrating riots that stemmed from protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC). The Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai from Karkardooma Courts stipulated that Imam’s bail, effective from March 20 to March 30, would require him to post a personal bond of Rs 50,000 along with two sureties of an equivalent amount.

During the interim bail period, Imam is subjected to strict conditions. He is prohibited from contacting witnesses or individuals associated with his case, and can only interact with family members. The court has mandated that he remain at home or at designated venues for the wedding celebrations. Additionally, Imam is barred from engaging with the media or using social media platforms to express his views.

Imam’s legal counsel highlighted that their client has spent five long years in custody without a temporary release on bail. This appeal for interim bail was partly based on the emotional significance of his brother’s wedding, emphasizing the need for familial support during significant life events.

The Delhi riots of February 2020 resulted in over 50 fatalities and left many others injured, igniting debates over religious tensions within the country. The unrest occurred largely between groups supporting the CAA and those opposing it. Sharjeel Imam’s arrest has been a focal point in discussions surrounding dissent and the right to protest in India, particularly in the context of the contentious laws that critics argue marginalize certain communities.