Trial can go on: Delhi High Court on Sharjeel Imam plea to quash hate speech charge

The Delhi High Court on Monday made it clear that there is no stay on trial against Sharjeel Imam in the sedition and hate speech case filed against him for allegedly making inflammatory speeches at the Jamia Millia Islamia.

Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri said the trial court is at liberty to proceed with the framing of charges against Imam.

"There is no stay, the trial would obviously proceed. If the trial court comes to a conclusion that enough material is there, then it will frame charges," the Court said.

The Court made the observation when the plea filed by Imam seeking quashing of sedition and hate speech charges under Sections 124A and 153A of the Indian Penal Code came up for hearing.

The Court proceeded to adjourn the case since the special public prosecutor appearing for Delhi Police was not available.

Though the Court questioned the SPP's continued absence, it ultimately granted the request for adjournment made by the prosecution.

At this juncture, Imam's counsel pointed out that the trial court is at the stage of framing of charges.

"So what? If charges are framed, then what," the Court asked.

Imam's counsel responded that he has challenged those charges.

The Court then made it clear that there is no stay on the same and the trial court can proceed.