Tahir Hussain’s Court Argument on 2020 Delhi Riots Conspiracy Case
In New Delhi, former MCD councillor Tahir Hussain, accused in the 2020 north-east Delhi riots, argued in court that the riots cannot be considered a result of a larger conspiracy under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. The Karkardooma court is currently hearing arguments on the framing of charges in this case.
Court Proceedings
Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai listened to part of the arguments presented by Advocate Rajiv Mohan, representing Tahir Hussain. Further arguments are scheduled for October 23. Mohan stated that the Delhi police registered 765 FIRs related to rioting in 2020, but no court recognized these as terrorist activities under UAPA.
Witness Testimony
Advocate Mohan argued that the statement of a protected witness, Mike, is unreliable. Mike allegedly knew about the conspiracy since May 2019 but did not inform the police, which Mohan claims disqualifies his statement as a witness under section 161 CrPC.
Previous Court Decisions
On March 30, 2024, the court denied Tahir Hussain’s bail application, citing his alleged role in funding and participating in the riots. The court noted that Hussain distributed money to protesters and used his licensed revolver during the riots. It was also alleged that he converted Rs 1.5 crore in cash for the riots.
Legal Arguments
The defense argued that Hussain’s actions do not meet the criteria for terrorist acts under UAPA. However, the court disagreed, stating that the use of firearms and other weapons could classify the acts as terrorism. The case involves around 20 individuals, including Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, charged under UAPA.
Doubts Revealed
Tahir Hussain -: Tahir Hussain is a person who used to be a councillor in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). He is involved in a legal case related to the 2020 Delhi riots.
2020 Delhi Riots -: The 2020 Delhi riots were violent clashes that happened in Delhi, India, in February 2020. They involved different communities and led to loss of lives and property.
Conspiracy -: A conspiracy is when people secretly plan to do something harmful or illegal. In this case, it refers to the idea that the riots were planned by a group of people.
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) -: The UAPA is a law in India that is used to prevent illegal activities that threaten the country’s security. It is often used in cases related to terrorism.
FIR -: FIR stands for First Information Report. It is a document prepared by the police when they receive information about a crime.
Bail -: Bail is when a person accused of a crime is allowed to stay out of jail while their case is being decided in court. Tahir Hussain’s bail was denied, meaning he has to stay in custody.
Rajiv Mohan -: Rajiv Mohan is the lawyer representing Tahir Hussain in court. He argues on behalf of Hussain in the legal proceedings.
