Delhi HC Rejects SIT Probes into 2020 Riots and 2019 Jamia Violence

The Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed a batch of petitions seeking a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the 2020 northeast Delhi riots and the 2019 violence at Jamia Millia Islamia. The bench, while pronouncing the verdict, stated that the batch was divided into two parts—one pertaining to the northeast Delhi riots and the other to the Jamia Millia riots. The court's decision effectively rejects calls for an independent, court-monitored investigation into both incidents.

The 2020 northeast Delhi riots, which erupted in February during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, resulted in at least 53 deaths and widespread property damage. The 2019 Jamia violence occurred in December when police clashed with students protesting the same law. Petitioners had argued that existing probes by Delhi Police were inadequate and demanded an SIT to ensure impartiality. The High Court's dismissal comes amid ongoing legal proceedings and public scrutiny over the handling of these cases.

The verdict is likely to be challenged in the Supreme Court, as petitioners may seek further review. The decision underscores the judiciary's reluctance to interfere with ongoing investigations unless clear evidence of bias is presented. It also highlights the continued political sensitivity surrounding the 2020 riots and the 2019 Jamia incident, with opposition parties and civil rights groups expressing disappointment. The court's ruling may impact public confidence in the investigative process, and further legal battles are anticipated.