SC rejects UAPA bail plea: 'Best morning to send a message', Pg10.

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court rejected the bail plea of Syed Mamoor Bhai, accused under the UAPA Act for spreading ISIS ideology.
• The accused was allegedly conspiring to attack the Jabalpur Ordnance Factory to acquire weapons.
• The court stated that even the preparation to commit a terror act is an offense under the UAPA.
• The trial court has been directed to conclude the trial within two years, failing which the accused can reapply for bail.

Detailed Insights:

• The National Investigation Agency (NIA) investigation revealed that the accused was influenced by radical Islamic preachers like Zakir Naik during the Covid-19 lockdown.
• The accused allegedly aimed to implement Sharia law globally, including in India, through violent means.
• He is accused of creating a WhatsApp group named “Fisabillah” to disseminate ideological content and attract individuals to ISIS ideology.
• The prosecution alleges that the accused conspired to attack the Ordnance Factory in Jabalpur to obtain weapons for terrorist activities.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967: An anti-terror law that aims to prevent unlawful activities directed against the integrity and sovereignty of India.
• ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria): A militant group that adheres to an extremist interpretation of Islam.
• Sharia Law: A religious law forming part of the Islamic tradition.