2 TISS Mumbai students denied bail over Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam release slogans
In a recent ruling, a Mumbai Sessions Court denied bail to two students from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) who were accused of raising slogans during a gathering held to honor the late activist G N Saibaba. The event took place on October 12, 2025, and included students paying tribute with candles and poems. However, the court noted that the gathering escalated into calls for the release of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, both facing serious legal charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The court's decision, delivered by Judge VB Bohra, emphasized the need for custodial interrogation to explore the students' intentions, particularly given the alleged slogans and the materials seized during the investigation. Among the items recovered were electronic devices containing literature associated with Maoist ideology, raising concerns about the students' influences and motivations. While the court acknowledged that paying homage to Saibaba is not inherently illegal, it stressed that the context of the gathering and the slogans raised were problematic. The judge highlighted the importance of adhering to legal protocols, noting that delays in trials are often due to systemic issues within the judicial process. As the investigation continues, the case underscores the complexities surrounding free expression and activism in academic settings.
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