The Delhi High Court has granted regular bail to two men accused in an alleged mob assault on two freelance reporters associated with a YouTube channel, observing that the prosecution's case suffered from inconsistencies regarding the identity of the accused and that they could not be kept behind bars indefinitely while the trial had yet to begin. The Court also made significant observations on the changing landscape of digital journalism and the need for responsible reporting.
Background of the Case
The case arose from FIR No. 534/2025 registered at Seemapuri Police Station after two individuals, who described themselves as members of the media, alleged that they were attacked while recording videos in an unauthorized colony on July 4, 2025. According to the prosecution, a crowd assaulted them, damaged their motorcycle, and snatched their mobile phone and camera battery. The two accused, Abid Ali @ Aabi and Furkan, were arrested and remained in custody since July 5, 2025.
Before the High Court, the defence argued that the investigation contained factual inaccuracies. Counsel for Abid Ali contended that video footage disproved the investigating officer's earlier claim that he had entered a bus to continue the assault. Furkan's counsel similarly argued that the prosecution itself had given conflicting descriptions of his identity in different records.
Court's Observations
Justice Girish Kathpalia noted that the prosecution's own material created uncertainty regarding the involvement of the applicants. The Court found that the investigating agency had made inconsistent claims about the identities of the accused and had failed to effectively assist the Court during the bail proceedings.
The Court remarked,
"The accused/applicants cannot be kept in jail endlessly."
The Bench also observed that while attacks on journalists are serious, the present case involved individuals who were freelancing for a YouTube channel rather than working for an accredited news organisation. At the same time, the Court made it clear that this distinction could not justify any assault upon them.
Discussing the broader issue of digital media, the Bench observed,
"Freedom of press must remain zealously protected. But, it cannot become a shield for irresponsible journalism."
The Court further stated that with the rapid rise of social media platforms, there is an increasing need for professional accountability and suggested that the legislature may consider an appropriate regulatory framework that balances press freedom with ethical standards and public interest.
However, Justice Kathpalia clarified that these observations were made only for deciding the bail applications and should not influence the trial court while deciding the case on evidence.
Court's Decision
Taking note of the inconsistencies in the prosecution's case, the nearly one-year incarceration of the applicants, the fact that four co-accused had already been granted bail, and that the trial had not yet commenced, the Delhi High Court allowed both bail applications.
The Court directed that Abid Ali @ Aabi and Furkan be released on regular bail upon furnishing a personal bond of ₹10,000 each with one surety of the like amount, subject to the satisfaction of the trial court.
Case Details
Case Title: Abid Ali @ Aabi v. State (Govt. NCT of Delhi) & Furkan v. State of NCT of Delhi
Case Number: BAIL APPLN. 1885/2026 & BAIL APPLN. 2545/2026
Judge: Justice Girish Kathpalia
Decision Date: July 16, 2026
