Delhi Court Convicts Former AAP Councillor in 2020 Riots Case: What’s Next?

In a significant ruling, a Delhi court has convicted former AAP councillor Tahir Hussain for his role in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots, while acquitting twelve other defendants. The court found Hussain guilty of inciting rioting, with sentencing arguments scheduled for November 16. This case is part of a broader investigation into the violence that resulted in 53 deaths and extensive property damage. The implications of this ruling could have far-reaching effects on political accountability and public safety in the region. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 10, 2026, 17:12 IST

Court Ruling on Former AAP Councillor

New Delhi: On Saturday, a court in Delhi found former AAP councillor Tahir Hussain guilty of inciting rioting linked to the 2020 northeast Delhi riots that occurred in the Dayalpur region. In contrast, the other twelve defendants were acquitted of all charges.

Additional Sessions Judge Praveen Singh determined that Hussain was guilty under Section 147 (punishment for rioting) in conjunction with Section 109 (abetment) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), while he was cleared of other allegations.

The court has scheduled a hearing for sentencing arguments against Hussain on November 16, with a detailed ruling still pending.

The case involved thirteen individuals, including Hussain, Mohammad Shadab, Shah Alam, Riyasat Ali, Gulfam, Rashid, Mohammad Rihan, Mohammad Abid, Arshad Qayyum, Irshad Ahmed, Deepak Singh Saini, Navneet, and Mehak Singh.

All accused faced charges related to rioting, property damage, arson, and criminal conspiracy, among other offenses. While Hussain was convicted on two counts, his twelve co-defendants were acquitted.

Previously, in July, a Delhi court had convicted Hussain along with four others for their involvement in the murder of Intelligence Bureau officer Ankit Sharma during the same riots.

This case originated from a complaint filed by Sharma's father, Ravinder Kumar, at the Dayalpur police station. Following the emergence of his name in the case, Hussain was suspended from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

The riots that erupted in northeast Delhi in February 2020 resulted in the deaths of 53 individuals, numerous injuries, and significant property destruction.