Five years after the tragic religious riots that shook Delhi, a recent analysis reveals a concerning trend – the legal cases related to the violence are falling apart. The aftermath of the 2020 clashes between Hindus and Muslims, triggered by tensions over a controversial citizenship law, continues to haunt the city with more than 80% of the cases resulting in acquittals or discharges.
The violence, which claimed the lives of over 50 individuals, mostly Muslims, marked one of the deadliest episodes in Delhi’s recent history. The riots extended over several days, leaving a trail of destruction with numerous homes and shops set ablaze by violent mobs.
Amidst the chaos, the police faced scrutiny for their alleged involvement in brutality and complicity during the riots. Despite denying any wrongdoing, the authorities claimed the violence was pre-planned as part of a larger conspiracy to disrupt the unity of India.
In response, the police initiated a massive investigation, filing 758 cases and arresting more than 2,000 individuals, including student leaders and activists. Among them, 18 were detained in a case dubbed the "main conspiracy case," charged under stringent anti-terror laws making bail nearly impossible to obtain. However, only a handful have been released in the five years since, with some, like activist Umar Khalid, still awaiting trial behind bars.
A comprehensive examination of the 758 cases and analysis of 126 court decisions by the Karkardooma court in Delhi revealed a stark reality. More than 80% of these cases ended in acquittals or discharges, as witnesses turned hostile or failed to support the prosecution’s case. Only a fraction resulted in convictions, highlighting the legal challenges and complexities surrounding the investigations.
Furthermore, the court criticized the Delhi police in numerous instances for investigative lapses, including filing chargesheets with predetermined outcomes that falsely implicated the accused. In some cases, judges raised doubts about the credibility of police testimonies, citing inconsistencies and delays in the identification of suspects.
The stories of individuals caught up in the legal quagmire shed light on the human toll of the prolonged legal battles. Shadab Alam, who spent 80 days in jail, recounted his harrowing experience of being wrongfully accused and subsequently discharged before trial. Similarly, Sandip Bhati, accused of assault during the riots, was acquitted after evidence emerged of police manipulation to frame him.
As the legal proceedings drag on, accountability and justice remain elusive for many, including activists like Gulfisha Fatima, who continues to languish in jail on charges of being a conspirator in the riots. The delays in the legal system have left families distraught, hoping for closure and justice after years of uncertainty.
The unfolding events underscore the need for a thorough reevaluation of the legal processes and a renewed commitment to deliver justice swiftly and fairly to all those affected by the tragic events of the Delhi riots.