HC seeks NIA reply on Umesh Kolhe murder accused’s plea to drop charges

Highest Court Requests NIA’s Response to Irfan Khan’s Request to Dismiss Charges

HC seeks NIA reply on Umesh – On Friday, the Bombay High Court requested the National Investigation Agency’s response to an appeal by Irfan Khan, a primary suspect in the 2022 killing of Amravati pharmacist Umesh Kolhe. The court has scheduled a hearing after four weeks following the notice issued to the federal agency.

Murder Context and NIA’s Allegations

Umesh Kolhe, who operated a medical store in Amravati, was fatally attacked on June 21, 2022, while riding his scooter home. His son and daughter-in-law were nearby but unable to prevent the incident. The NIA claims the attack was connected to social media posts endorsing former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma, who had made contentious comments about the Prophet at the time.

According to the NIA, the murder aimed to instill fear, especially among Hindus, and thus falls under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) alongside charges from the Indian Penal Code.

“The murder was carried out with the intention of spreading terror, particularly among Hindus, and therefore attracted provisions of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in addition to charges under the Indian Penal Code,” stated the special NIA court in its March 10 ruling.

Conspiracy and Khan’s Role

Khan, a real estate dealer, was arrested on July 2, 2022, and accused of encouraging the attackers. The NIA alleges that the plot began after Yusuf Khan, a veterinary doctor, shared a WhatsApp group message attributed to Kolhe. This message was then posted in another group, “Kalim Ibrahim,” initiated by Irfan Khan, sparking the conspiracy.

The agency claims that on June 19, 2022, Mohammad Shoeb, Atib Rashid, Irfan Khan, and Shahim Ahemad met at Gausiya Hall in Amravati. During this meeting, they allegedly decided to kill Kolhe, with Khan agreeing to provide support. The NIA has labeled Khan as the mastermind behind the plot and asserts he recruited individuals who stayed in the background.

Khan’s Defense

Khan disputes his involvement, stating he has no criminal history. He runs the NGO Rahebar, which offered medical aid during the Covid-19 pandemic, and has strong community ties. In his appeal, he argued that he was targeted due to personal conflicts and the influence of anti-social elements.