Umar Khalid, a former student leader from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), has been in Tihar Jail for over four years without bail or trial. Once a prominent activist known for his role in student protests, Khalid now faces severe legal charges under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).
The Current Legal Battle
Khalid’s detention stems from his arrest in September 2020, when he was accused of being a key conspirator in the violent Delhi riots of February 2020. These riots, which resulted in the deaths of 53 people, primarily affected the Muslim community and erupted during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The CAA has been controversial for its perceived religious bias, which sparked widespread demonstrations.
Khalid and his fellow activists have consistently denied any involvement in inciting violence, insisting their participation was limited to peaceful protests. Despite these claims, Khalid’s legal battle has been marred by repeated bail denials and delays in the judicial process. The charges against him have yet to be formally addressed in court, and his defense team, led by Kapil Sibal, argues that the case lacks substantial evidence.
Life Behind Bars
In jail, Khalid maintains a structured routine. He spends his time reading a wide range of books, from modern novels to classic literature, and working on a prison diary that has attracted interest from publishers. His daily activities include writing legal petitions for other inmates and watching cricket on television.
Family contact is limited to a weekly 20-minute video call, and friends can visit him for 30-minute sessions. Khalid was recently granted temporary bail to attend his sister’s wedding, offering a brief respite from his prolonged detention.
His partner, Banojyotsna Lahiri, frequently visits with new books, helping him stay engaged and informed. Khalid has read nearly 200 books during his incarceration, with his collection including works by Paul Lynch, William Styron, Saadat Hasan Manto, and Mirza Ghalib.
Reflections and Questions
Khalid’s time in prison has been a period of reflection, particularly about his surroundings. He shares his ward with individuals convicted of serious crimes, which he finds jarring given his own circumstances. He has expressed bewilderment at being placed among such individuals, questioning the nature of his detention.
Khalid’s case underscores broader concerns about the UAPA and its impact on detainees. The law is known for its stringent provisions, making bail difficult and leading to extended periods of detention before trial. As Khalid waits for his day in court, his situation remains a focal point in discussions about legal and human rights in India.
Leave a Reply