Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) scholar Sharjeel Imam, currently facing charges in a wider conspiracy case linked to the 2020 North-East Delhi Riots, formally moved a Delhi court on Monday, October 13, 2025. He is seeking a two-week interim bail to enable him to participate in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
Imam, who has been held in Tihar jail for over five years under the rigorous Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) by the Delhi police, is still awaiting trial in this matter.
His application for temporary release was submitted to Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Sameer Bajpai at Karkardooma Courts. In his plea, Imam stated his intention to run as an independent candidate from the Bahadurganj constituency in his native Bihar, identifying himself as a “political prisoner and student activist” keen on participating in the electoral process.
The plea highlights that as an independent candidate, Imam lacks affiliation with any political party. It further emphasizes that his younger brother is the only person available to assist with his nomination and campaign arrangements, while simultaneously caring for their ailing mother and supporting the family.
He specifically requested bail from October 15 to October 29, underscoring the urgency given that the nomination filing period for the 18th Bihar Legislative Assembly Elections began on October 13 and concludes on October 20.
Imam argued that his presence in his chosen constituency is crucial to successfully file his nomination papers and organize his election campaign effectively.
It’s important to note that the Delhi High Court had previously denied him regular bail in the Delhi riots case just last month.
An appeal challenging that decision is currently awaiting hearing before the Supreme Court.