In his first interview since his 2020 arrest, Umar Khalid speaks about the impact of prolonged incarceration
June 30, 2026: Student activist Umar Khalid has spoken publicly for the first time since his arrest in 2020, describing the psychological impact of spending nearly six years in Delhi’s Tihar Jail without a trial. In an interview, Khalid said prolonged incarceration had affected both his mental well-being and sense of humanity. He claimed that public narratives surrounding his case had dehumanised him and made it difficult to cope with life behind bars.
Khalid, who was arrested under anti-terror laws in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case, has consistently denied all allegations against him. He criticised what he described as the growing normalisation of hate speech and misinformation in society and expressed disappointment over what he called the silence of opposition parties, civil society groups and public figures regarding the imprisonment of activists and dissenters. Despite his incarceration, Khalid said he remains committed to the principles of non-violence and dialogue.
Meanwhile, a Delhi court has issued notice to Delhi Police on Khalid’s fresh bail application in the larger Delhi riots conspiracy case. The matter is scheduled for hearing on July 4 before the Karkardooma Court. In his plea, Khalid has cited recent Supreme Court observations on prolonged incarceration and delays in trial, arguing that the changed legal circumstances support his request for bail. The BJP has maintained that the judicial process is independent and that the case is being handled strictly according to law.