Will SP Leader Azam Khan Finally Walk Free After 23 Months?
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Synopsis
Senior SP leader Azam Khan is poised for release after 23 months in jail, pending a minor fine payment. With heightened security in Sitapur, his supporters gather in anticipation of his return. This event marks a significant moment for the Samajwadi Party as they prepare to welcome their leader back into the fold.
Key Takeaways
- Azam Khan is set to be released after nearly 23 months in jail.
- The release is contingent upon the payment of a fine.
- Section 144 has been imposed in Sitapur to maintain order.
- The Samajwadi Party is rallying support for Khan's return.
- His legal battles have raised significant political questions.
Sitapur (Uttar Pradesh), Sep 23 (NationPress) Mohammad Azam Khan, a prominent figure in the Samajwadi Party (SP) and former cabinet minister in Uttar Pradesh, is on the verge of being released from Sitapur Jail this Tuesday, marking the end of a nearly 23-month incarceration.
However, the release may be postponed for a few hours as he overlooked the payment of a fine of Rs 8,000 related to two cases.
To secure his release, Khan must first clear this fine in court. Following that, he will return to Sitapur Jail for verification before being officially released.
In anticipation of his release, prohibitory measures under Section 144 have been imposed in Sitapur city. Law enforcement is actively using loudspeakers to caution the public against gathering near the jail.
Despite the restrictions, a growing number of SP workers, leaders, and supporters have gathered outside the jail. Authorities are dispersing the crowd, and multiple vehicles in the vicinity have been penalized.
According to Sitapur Circle Officer Vinayak Bhosle, "The narrow roads in the city, combined with the festivities of Navratri, have led to increased congestion. No one is permitted to linger without cause while Section 144 is enforced, and we are taking necessary actions to clear the roads."
Preparations for welcoming Azam Khan are underway, led by SP district president Chhatrapal Singh Yadav.
In a statement to IANS, he said, "We are here to welcome him back. He is our leader, and his return will further solidify our party."
SP MLA Anil Kumar Verma, who also arrived to greet the senior leader, expressed gratitude, stating, "The legal challenges have finally come to a close, and we thank the court for this outcome."
Azam Khan was granted bail on September 18 by the Allahabad High Court in the Quality Bar land grab case. An FIR related to this case was filed at the Civil Lines police station in Rampur, prompting Khan to seek bail from the High Court.
Earlier this month, on September 10, he was also granted bail in another case concerning the alleged forced eviction of residents from the Dungarpur colony in Rampur.
Additionally, Khan was acquitted by a special MP-MLA court in a 17-year-old case involving accusations of road blockade and damage to public property.
Over the years, a total of 16 FIRs have been lodged against Azam Khan, encompassing various criminal allegations.
Point of View
The release of Azam Khan signifies a pivotal moment for the Samajwadi Party. His long incarceration raises questions about the judicial process and the political dynamics in Uttar Pradesh. The party's unity and strength will be tested as Khan re-enters the political arena amidst heightened public interest.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Azam Khan imprisoned?
Azam Khan was imprisoned due to multiple FIRs filed against him, involving various criminal allegations, including land grabbing and eviction of residents.
When is Azam Khan expected to be released?
He is expected to be released on Tuesday, pending the payment of a fine of Rs 8,000.
What is Section 144?
Section 144 is a legal provision that prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area to maintain public order.
How many FIRs have been filed against Azam Khan?
A total of 16 FIRs have been lodged against Azam Khan over the years, covering a range of criminal charges.
What impact will his release have on the Samajwadi Party?
His release is expected to bolster the morale of the Samajwadi Party and strengthen the party's position in Uttar Pradesh politics.
