NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Expresses Support for Jailed Activist Umar Khalid; Writes Note for Umar Khalid

New York: New York City’s newly elected mayor, Zohran Mamdani, sent a note of support to human rights activist Umar Khalid, who is currently jailed. The message comes as eight members of the US Congress urged New Delhi to ensure a fair trial for Khalid under international law.

Mamdani’s note—shared on social media by friends of the former JNU student—recalled his meeting with Khalid’s parents and expressed solidarity with the activist, who has been held in Tihar Jail under UAPA charges connected to the 2020 Delhi riots. In the letter, Mamdani wrote:

"I think of your words on bitterness often, and the importance of not letting it consume one's self. It was a pleasure to meet your parents. We are all thinking of you."

Meanwhile, eight US lawmakers, including Democrat Jim McGovern—the ranking member of the House Rules Committee and co-chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission—met Khalid’s parents in December 2025 and subsequently wrote to India’s ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, expressing concern over his prolonged detention.

On X, McGovern stated, "Earlier this month, I met with the parents of Umar Khalid, who has been jailed in India for over 5 years without trial. Representative Raskin and I are leading our colleagues to urge that he be granted bail and a fair, timely trial in accordance with international law."

Other lawmakers who signed the letter include Congressman Jamie Raskin, Senator Chris Van Hollen, Senator Peter Welch, Congresswoman Pramila Jaypal, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, Congressman Jan Schakowsky, and Congressman Lloyd Doggett.

Following the revelation of the letter, BJP accused the Mamdani of interfering India's internal matters by writing a note to Umar Khalid.

Several media reported that Gaurav Bhatia, BJP's national spokesperson warned the New York City Mayor, asserting, "If India's sovereignty is challenged, 140 crore Indians will stand united under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership."

Umar Khalid, along with other activists, are accused in a case alleging a conspiracy behind the 2020 Delhi riots. He was arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. He is yet to face trial, and his bail plea is pending before the Supreme Court.

Recently, he was granted interim bail from December 16-29 to attend his sister’s wedding, after which he reported back to Tihar Jail.