Rampur, Oct 31 (NationPress) In an extraordinary and candid discussion from his home in Rampur, the seasoned Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, who has recently emerged from a 23-month imprisonment, shared profound insights about his unwavering relationship with Akhilesh Yadav and the tough realities of his life after incarceration.

The 76-year-old political firebrand, previously a significant figure in the power dynamics of Uttar Pradesh, spoke to IANS with the confidence of a survivor, blending sharp humor, philosophical reflections, and a passionate defense of minority rights.

Khan, who was released from Sitapur jail in September amidst various criminal allegations he deems “fabricated vendettas,” painted a concerning picture of the ongoing decline of democracy in India.

“Democracy seemed like a distant reality in Varanasi jail,” he recounted, his gaze intense. “Fear consumed the nation—officials clocked in out of fear rather than duty. The INDIA Bloc has the potential to challenge the NDA if it abandons its cynical approach to voter banks and fosters genuine partnerships.”

Regarding the elections in Bihar, Khan forecasted a Mahagathbandhan advantage, criticizing the NDA's “burden-shifting strategies.”

“A skullcap from a pocket does not signify a leader who supports Muslims,” he remarked, condemning superficial gestures.

His relationship with Akhilesh was highlighted as a vital aspect. When asked about rumors of disagreements, he dismissed them as “media fairy tales.” “Our 45-year journey with the Yadav family continues. He visited me in jail several times—ties like ours aren’t reliant on visits.”

Reflecting on the absence of Mulayam Singh Yadav, Khan expressed, “If Netaji were alive, he might have ignited protests, but today’s politicized laws necessitate caution. Injustice is my destiny, yet Kapil Sibal's legal prowess dispelled 27 FIRs in mere moments.”

About his own struggles, he dismissed fantasies of revenge: “If the SP returns in 2027, it will be about justice— not vendetta—for the victims in Sambhal and Bareilly.”

Financially strained due to IT raids that yielded a mere Rs 3,500 from his savings and limited gold from his wife's, Khan depends on dual pensions from his eight consecutive victories in Rampur. “No switching seats for me; my votes increased each time,” he asserted.

On retirement, Khan chuckled. “You journalists are drawn to flickering lamps. Mine continues to shine—health is temporary. When the game begins, I will swing the bat.”

Concerning life’s dangers, he invoked fate. “Enemies conspire in vain; I’ve escaped bullets, with pistols falling at my feet. Ultimately, it is Allah who decides.”

Khan's powerful message: “Muslims are not just votes. We have supported development-oriented governments in UP.