Natasha Narwal is an accused in three FIRs registered by the Delhi police in connection with the 2020 northeast Delhi riots. | Photo Credit: Special arrangement
The Delhi High Court on Monday sought a response from the Delhi police on activist Natasha Narwal’s plea seeking permission to travel to the United Kingdom to attend an academic conference while on bail in a case linked to the 2020 northeast Delhi riots.
Justice Amit Bansal issued notice on Ms. Narwal’s petition challenging an October 6 trial court order denying her permission to travel abroad in a case registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The matter has been listed for further hearing on October 15.
Ms. Narwal’s counsel told the court that she planned to attend a conference in the UK from November 2 to December 1 and sought an early decision on her plea. The counsel submitted that she would need time to secure the release of her passport, which had been surrendered during the criminal proceedings, apply for a visa and make travel arrangements.
The trial court had rejected her request, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the stage of the proceedings.
Ms. Narwal is an accused in three FIRs registered by the Delhi police in connection with the violence, including one alleging a “larger conspiracy” under the UAPA.
In June 2021, the High Court granted bail to Ms. Narwal and fellow activist Devangana Kalita in the UAPA case. The court observed that, “in its anxiety to suppress dissent”, the State appeared to be blurring the line between the constitutionally guaranteed right to protest and terrorist activity. It warned that if this mindset gained traction, it would be a “sad day for democracy”.
Published - October 13, 2026 01:02 am IST