The Delhi Police, in its soon-to-be-filed affidavit before the Supreme Court, has described the 2020 Delhi riots as part of a coordinated “regime-change operation,” claiming that the violence was not a spontaneous protest but a meticulously organised attempt to destabilise the Indian state.
According to details accessed by India Today, the affidavit presents ocular, documentary, and technical evidence linking the accused to what investigators call a “deep-rooted conspiracy engineered on communal lines.” The police assert that the unrest sought to undermine India’s sovereignty and integrity by weaponising dissent over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).
Not a Spontaneous Protest
The affidavit contends that the riots were a deliberate attempt to damage India’s internal harmony and global reputation. The CAA, it says, was “strategically projected as anti-Muslim” to incite communal tensions.
Police also claim that the violence was timed to coincide with then US President Donald Trump’s visit to India, aiming to attract international attention and portray India negatively on the global stage.
Delay in Trial Proceedings
In its submission, the Delhi Police accuses the petitioners — including Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, Meeran Haider, and Gulfisha Fatima — of intentionally stalling legal proceedings. The affidavit alleges that the accused filed “frivolous applications” and showed “coordinated non-cooperation” to delay the framing of charges and the start of the trial.
The police maintain that the delay stems from the accused’s actions, not from the investigative agencies.
‘Jail, Not Bail’ Principle
Citing provisions under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the affidavit reiterates that “jail, not bail” should apply in cases of serious offences linked to terrorism and national security.
Officials argue that the accused failed to counter the prima facie evidence against them, and that trial delays cannot justify bail. They also dismissed concerns over an extensive witness list, stating that only 100–150 witnesses are material and that the trial could proceed swiftly if the accused cooperate.
Planned to Draw Global Attention
The affidavit includes digital evidence and chat messages referencing Donald Trump’s visit, asserting that the riots were deliberately planned to coincide with his trip. This, the police allege, was intended to “globalise” the CAA issue and project India as intolerant on religious lines.
Widespread Damage and Broader Impact
The 2020 riots claimed 53 lives and caused extensive damage to property, with over 750 FIRs registered across Delhi. Police believe that the conspirators aimed to replicate the unrest across other Indian states, suggesting a pan-India mobilisation plan.