A court in the national capital has framed charges against former Congress councillor Ishrat Jahan and 12 others for rioting, unlawful assembly, and attempt to murder in connection with the 2020 North-East Delhi riots.
The accused persons, including Jahan, Khalid Saifi, Vikram Pratap, and others, were discharged for certain offences under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Arms Act. However, charges for offences like rioting, assault, and attempt to murder were framed against them.
Additional Sessions Judge Amitabh Rawat led the court proceedings and highlighted that there were prima facie grounds to presume the accused’s involvement in the alleged offences.
The charges stem from their alleged participation in riotous activities, obstructing public servants, and attempting to cause harm to deter them from their duties during the riots. The court took into account statements from public witnesses, indicating an unlawful assembly, instigation by Jahan and Saifi, and violence against the police despite requests to disperse.
During the framing of charges, the court considered the statements of an injured head constable, emphasizing the need for further clarification during the trial.
The case revolves around allegations that the accused, including Jahan and Saifi, took part in a protest during the riots, refusing to comply with police orders to disperse. The court discharged them under specific sections of the Arms Act, citing the prosecution’s claim that a juvenile possessed the firearm used in the incident.
