Sons of Hizb Chief Move Delhi HC for Phone Access in Jail Amid Indo-Pak Tensions

New Delhi , May 10, 2025: The sons of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin have petitioned the Delhi High Court for restored phone rights while imprisoned on terror financing charges, raising concerns over undertrial prisoners’ communication rights under strict jail rules.

Petition Seeks Restoration of Basic Communication Rights
Amid India-Pakistan tensions, Syed Salahuddin’s sons petition Delhi HC for phone rights. Authorities have incarcerated both in Delhi for allegedly financing terror activities through hawala networks.

Prison Communication Rules Under Scrutiny
The petition challenges Delhi Jail Rule 631, which bars terror-related inmates from phone calls. The petitioners argue that authorities have applied the rule inconsistently, granting exceptions to some terror-accused inmates. Their counsel emphasized the human rights aspect of maintaining family contact, especially in prolonged undertrial situations.

Court Questions Lack of Official Representation
Justices Upadhyay and Gedela raised concerns over the absence of prison authorities. The court has clubbed the matter with similar petitions and scheduled it for hearing on May 22.

NIA Arrests and Allegations of International Funding
In 2018, a multi-agency team arrested Shakeel in Srinagar on terror financing charges. He allegedly facilitated international funds for Hizb-ul-Mujahideen and received transfers from Saudi Arabia. In 2017, authorities apprehended his brother Yusuf for funneling funds to the banned outfit.

Case May Influence Policy on Undertrial Rights
Legal experts believe this case could influence prisoner rights, especially for undertrials in terrorism cases. If successful, the plea may prompt a reevaluation of communication rules for inmates in national security cases.