Amid intense scrutiny in the Delhi riots conspiracy saga, Sharjeel Imam’s lawyer argued persuasively that his client championed non-violence, debunking claims of fomenting unrest. The hearing at Karkardooma court featured a thorough review of Imam’s protest-era oratory.
The defense portrayed Imam as a vocal critic of CAA, whose messages echoed peaceful resistance icons like Gandhi and Ambedkar. ‘Every speech ends with a plea for ahimsa—how can this be twisted into violence?’ the advocate questioned, presenting annotated clips.
Riot investigators from Delhi Police’s Special Cell alleged Imam’s words sparked a chain reaction leading to the February 2020 carnage, but the lawyer highlighted chronological and causal gaps in their theory.
As families still mourn the riots’ toll—53 dead, properties razed—the proceedings illuminate tensions between anti-terror laws and fundamental rights. Imam, arrested under multiple FIRs, seeks bail after years behind bars. A decision looms, with implications for India’s protest jurisprudence.