Overview On January 5, 2026 , opposition leaders raised concerns regarding the Supreme Court's decision to deny bail to activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case . These concerns were amplified by the repeated granting of parole to Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh , the chief of Dera Sacha Sauda, who is a convicted rapist. This situation has sparked debate about the application of justice and the use of stringent laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) . Key Developments Bail Denial: The Supreme Court denied bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam on January 5, 2026 . Parole Granted: Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh , serving a 20-year jail term , was granted a 40-day parole , his 15th since his conviction in 2017 . Opposition Response: Opposition leaders questioned the disparity in treatment, highlighting concerns about the application of justice. UAPA Concerns: The CPI(M) criticized the use of UAPA to suppress dissent, arguing that it violates principles of natural justice. Supreme Court Rationale: The Supreme Court granted bail to five other accused, citing "hierarchy of participation." Those granted bail include activists Gulfisha Fatima , Meeran Haider , Shifa Ur Rehman , Mohd. Saleem Khan and Shadab Ahmad . Statements from Leaders John Brittas (CPI(M) MP): Brittas stated that the principle of 'bail is the rule, jail the exception' does not seem to apply equally to all individuals. He highlighted that Umar Khalid has been detained for over 5 years under UAPA without the trial even beginning, while Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh enjoys repeated parole despite his conviction. CPI(M): The party asserted that the denial of bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam , who have spent over five years in jail under UAPA without trial, violates the principles of natural justice. They emphasized that prolonged pre-trial incarceration undermines the constitutional right to liberty and a speedy trial. Manoj Jha (RJD MP): Jha raised