The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted bail to Kareem @ Sadam and another accused, who had been in custody for over five years under charges including those framed under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The appellants were among 138 accused in a case investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). They faced serious allegations under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including rioting, causing damage to public property, and assault on public officials, as well as offences under the UAPA and the Prevention of Destruction and Loss of Property Act.
The High Court of Karnataka had earlier denied bail, leading the accused to approach the apex court.
A bench comprising Justice M.M. Sundresh and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma noted that the accused had already spent more than five years in prison, with the trial still far from conclusion.
"There are 254 witnesses to be examined, and the appellants are only two among the 138 accused persons," the bench observed, expressing concern over the prolonged incarceration.
Setting aside the High Court's order, the Supreme Court directed that the appellants be released on bail, subject to conditions imposed by the trial court.
"Taking note of the aforesaid facts, we have no hesitation in granting bail," the order stated.
With this, the top court allowed the appeals and disposed of all pending applications.
Case Title: Kareem @ Sadam vs State by National Investigation Agency
Date of Order: 7 October 2025