What happened

The Supreme Court stayed a Delhi High Court order that had allowed accused persons in the 2020 Delhi riots larger conspiracy case access to probe documents while the investigation continues. The Supreme Court's interim relief keeps the investigation material out of reach for now and preserves the status quo pending further hearing.

The Supreme Court accepted the police and prosecution argument that disclosure of such material at this stage could affect the investigation and the confidentiality of sensitive evidence.

Background and earlier position

The dispute forms part of the continuing litigation in the 2020 Delhi riots case, where accused persons have sought access to records and investigation material. The Delhi High Court had permitted access, but the Supreme Court has now paused that direction.

Why it matters for UPSC