NEW DELHI, Aug 11: The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed a special court in Delhi to conclude within one year the trial of a case involving alleged online radicalisation of youths by terrorist organisations, including ISIS.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana passed the order while hearing a plea filed by Md Heydaitullah, who challenged a January 2025 Delhi High Court order denying him bail.
Heydaitullah was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in October 2022. The agency has alleged that he disseminated ISIS ideology through cyberspace and that incriminating material was recovered from electronic devices seized during the investigation.
During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the NIA, informed the court that charges had been framed against eight accused. Of the 12 accused in the case, four are absconding, she said.
The petitioner’s counsel submitted that Heydaitullah had been in custody for around four years. The NIA said the matter was currently before a special court and involved 14 protected witnesses.
The Supreme Court directed the special court to complete the examination of vital and protected witnesses within six months and ensure that the entire trial is concluded within one year.
The bench also said the special court could conduct the proceedings on a day-to-day basis, if necessary.
The case was registered under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The Delhi High Court had earlier rejected Heydaitullah’s bail plea, noting allegations that he had taken an oath of allegiance to ISIS leaders and had allegedly promoted the organisation’s ideology.
According to the prosecution, Heydaitullah used social media to disseminate ISIS ideology, spread hatred against the Government of India and promote enmity against Hindus. It also alleged that he transferred funds from his bank account for ISIS-related activities.
The NIA registered an FIR in 2021 and arrested Heydaitullah in October 2022.
