The Supreme Court’s decision to deny bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam has triggered intense debate online — and television actor Devoleena Bhattacharjee has now weighed in with a strong reaction that’s added fuel to the conversation.
Supreme Court Refuses Bail
On January 5, 2026, the Supreme Court declined to grant bail to former JNU research scholars Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the alleged larger conspiracy case linked to the 2020 Delhi riots. A Bench led by Justice Aravind Kumar, along with Justice Prasanna B. Varale, observed that the prosecution material disclosed a prima facie case, invoking the statutory bar under Section 43D(5) of the UAPA.
The court noted that the evidence on record did not justify releasing them on bail, adding that material suggested involvement at the level of planning, mobilisation, and issuing strategic directions. Both Khalid and Imam have been in judicial custody since 2020.
At the same time, the apex court granted bail to Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa-ur-Rehman, Mohd Saleem Khan, and Shadab Ahmed, citing the fact that they had already spent more than five years in custody.
Devoleena’s Strong Response
Amid the mixed reactions online, Devoleena Bhattacharjee took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticise those supporting Khalid and Imam. Retweeting an old video of Sharjeel Imam, she posted a sharply worded message condemning what she described as people standing in support of “traitors,” adding that education does not always defeat radical thinking.
Her post quickly went viral, drawing both praise and backlash.
Social Media Splits Further
Devoleena’s statement intensified the already polarised online discourse. Several users applauded her for speaking out, calling her stance “brave” and “unusual” within the entertainment industry. Some praised her for openly expressing nationalist views.
However, others criticised her sharply, with a section of users dragging her personal life into the discussion, including comments referencing her husband. The exchange underscored how quickly political and legal issues spiral into personal attacks on social platforms.
Legal Background
It’s worth noting that in September 2025, the Delhi High Court had also rejected bail pleas of Khalid, Imam, and others, stating that a prima facie case under the UAPA was made out against them. The Supreme Court’s latest ruling has now reaffirmed that position, while also distinguishing the cases of other accused who were granted bail.
Final Words
As the legal process continues, reactions around the case remain deeply divided. Devoleena Bhattacharjee’s comments have once again highlighted how judicial decisions often spill into cultural and celebrity discourse, amplifying emotions on all sides. For now, the court’s ruling stands — but the debate, both legal and public, shows no signs of slowing down.
