Sharjeel Imam among ‘kingpins of larger conspiracy to incite violence’: Court frames charges in 2019 anti-CAA protests case

According to the chargesheet filed in this case, a total of 41 vehicles, including government vehicles, were damaged and set ablaze by a mob of hundreds in New Friends Colony. It also stated that 10 police officials were injured. Among them was one station house officer (SHO) who sustained grievous injuries.

“Why, otherwise, accused Sharjeel Imam incited only the members of Muslim religion to disrupt the normal functioning of the society,” the court noted.

“It needs to be observed here that there could be nothing peaceful about a chakka jaam. In a populous city like Delhi, at any given time, scores of critically ill medical patients requiring urgent treatment are in a rush to reach hospitals. Chakka jaam can potentially lead to deterioration of their condition or even death if they do not receive medical care in time, which would be nothing short of culpable homicide. Vehicles supplying essential and emergency services are on the roads,” it said. Chakka jaam refers to a protest where people block roads.

“Even if the mob does not indulge in violence and arsony while enforcing chakka jaam, it would still be a violent act by one section of society against the other,” the court added.

Imam had argued in the court that he was not a part of the “unlawful assembly” that allegedly committed rioting on December 15, 2019. He also argued that his speech did not promote enmity, hatred, or disharmony.

Fourteen persons have been discharged in the case, while charges against nine others, including Tanha and Imam, were framed.