Court Denies Bail to Mosque Leader Amidst Violent Protest Charges

A court refused interim bail for Zafar Ali, president of Shahi Jama Masjid, facing charges related to violence at a mosque protest. His regular bail plea is set for April 2. Ali was implicated in violent incidents during a protest against a mosque survey, leading to his arrest in March.

The local court rejected the interim bail petition of Shahi Jama Masjid leader Zafar Ali on Thursday, deferring the decision on his regular plea to April 2, authorities confirmed.

Additional District Judge II Nirbhay Narayan Rai dismissed the interim plea after hearing arguments. According to the prosecution, Ali faced serious accusations, including inciting violence and damaging public property. Despite his defense team's efforts, the court found the charges significant enough to deny interim bail, as explained by Additional District Government Counsel Hariom Prakash Saini.

Ali's arrest stemmed from alleged involvement in the November 24 protests against a mosque survey, which devolved into violence. Facing multiple charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, Ali claims wrongful implication. His arrest remains a pivotal issue in ongoing tensions over the Mughal-era mosque, with a state panel investigating the incident that left four dead.

(With inputs from agencies.)