Azam Khan Sentenced for Controversial Remarks During 2019 Elections

Prominent Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan has been sentenced to two years in prison for making controversial remarks during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The court found him guilty of threatening a government official, which sparked widespread discussion and backlash. The statement, made during a campaign rally, included provocative comments about cleaning shoes, which went viral on social media. This ruling marks a significant moment in Khan's political career, raising questions about the implications for his future in politics. Discover the details of the case and its impact on Khan's political journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2026, 14:26 IST

Court Ruling on Azam Khan's Controversial Statement

A significant ruling has been made regarding one of the most talked-about and contentious statements made by prominent Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, which has impacted his political journey. The remarks, which included phrases like 'These are just petty officials, do not fear them... Insha Allah, I will have them clean shoes,' were directed at a government official and resonated from Rampur to the Election Commission in Delhi. After seven years, the MP-MLA magistrate court in Rampur delivered its verdict on May 16. In connection with a controversial statement made during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the court found Azam Khan guilty and sentenced him to two years in prison, along with a fine of ₹5,000.

Background of the 'Shoe Cleaning' Controversy

The controversy originated during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections when Azam Khan was the Samajwadi Party candidate for the Rampur seat. During a roadshow in the Bhota area of Rampur, he allegedly made a sharp comment aimed at the then-district magistrate. In a viral video, Azam Khan was heard saying, 'These are just petty officials, do not fear them; they are allied with those who clean shoes, Insha Allah, I will have them clean shoes after the elections.' This video gained significant traction on social media.