AIMIM chief blames party for prolonged jail term of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam
January 9, 2026: AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has launched a sharp attack on the Congress, holding it responsible for the continued denial of bail to activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam. Owaisi alleged that amendments brought by the Congress to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) made bail provisions extremely stringent, leading to prolonged incarceration without relief.
He claimed that he had opposed the inclusion of certain clauses in the law at the time, warning they could be misused against individuals. Referring specifically to the phrase “by any other means of whatever nature,” Owaisi said this wording was introduced during Congress rule and later relied upon by the Supreme Court while considering bail matters under the UAPA.
According to Owaisi, the impact of these amendments has been severe, with Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam remaining behind bars for nearly five years without bail. He argued that the situation highlights how flawed legal provisions can have long-term consequences, especially for young individuals caught in extended legal battles.