What Did NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Write to Activist Umar Khalid?
A Message of Support from NYC's Mayor
New York: Mayor Zohran Mamdani of New York City has reached out to activist Umar Khalid, reflecting on Khalid's thoughts about 'bitterness' and the necessity of not allowing it to take over one's life.
The note was shared on X by Khalid's partner, Banojyotsna Lahiri, who captioned it, "When prisons try to isolate, words travel. Zohran Mamdani writes to Umar Khalid."
In his handwritten message, Mamdani expressed, "Dear Umar, I often think of your insights on bitterness and the need to avoid letting it consume you. Meeting your parents was a pleasure. We are all thinking of you."
Khalid, along with several others, faces charges under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967 and the Indian Penal Code for allegedly orchestrating the Delhi riots in February 2020, which resulted in 53 fatalities and over 700 injuries.
In a related development, a group of US lawmakers has contacted Indian Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, advocating for Khalid's bail and a fair trial that aligns with international legal standards.
Among the eight lawmakers, Representatives Jim McGovern and Jamie Raskin expressed their ongoing concern regarding the extended pre-trial detention of those charged in connection with the February 2020 Delhi violence, including Khalid.
The letter emphasized the long-standing strategic partnership between the US and India, rooted in democratic principles, constitutional governance, and strong interpersonal connections. As the largest democracies globally, both nations have a vested interest in safeguarding freedom, the rule of law, human rights, and pluralism.
In this context, the lawmakers voiced their concerns about Khalid's detention.
They noted that human rights organizations, legal experts, and international media have raised doubts about the fairness of the investigation and legal proceedings surrounding Khalid's case.
Khalid has been held without bail for five years under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, which independent human rights advocates have warned may violate international standards regarding equality before the law, due process, and proportionality.
The US Representatives acknowledged that these issues are currently under review by the Supreme Court of India and welcomed the news of Khalid receiving temporary bail to attend his sister's wedding.
They urged that Khalid be granted bail and released during the court proceedings, stating, "In respect for India's democratic institutions and its role as a key partner of the US, we request that your Government share the measures being taken to ensure that the judicial proceedings against Khalid and his co-accused align with international standards."