Is SP Leader Azam Khan Finally Free After 23 Months?
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Synopsis
Azam Khan's release from jail after 23 months has caused excitement among his supporters. This pivotal moment in his political career has the potential to reshape the future of the Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh. Stay tuned to discover how his return impacts the party and local politics!
Key Takeaways
- Azam Khan released after 23 months in jail.
- Released on paying Rs 8,000 fine.
- Prohibitory orders under Section 144 in Sitapur.
- Significant crowd of supporters gathered outside jail.
- His return could re-energize the Samajwadi Party.
Sitapur (Uttar Pradesh), Sep 23 (NationPress) Senior Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and former Uttar Pradesh Minister Mohammad Azam Khan was released from Sitapur jail on Tuesday after spending nearly 23 months in confinement.
His release had initially been postponed by a few hours. Although he was scheduled to be freed at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, he overlooked paying a fine of Rs 8,000 for two cases.
His attorney, Sadnam Singh, settled the fine in court, after which the necessary verification took place. Subsequently, he was released.
Speaking to the media, Sadnam stated, "The fine against Azam Khan has now been resolved. I delivered the receipt of the fine inside and met with the jailer."
In light of his release, prohibitory orders under Section 144 have been implemented in Sitapur city. The police are using loudspeakers to caution people against gathering near the jail area.
Despite these restrictions, the crowd of SP workers, leaders, and supporters waiting outside the jail has increased. Authorities are dispersing the assembly, and several vehicles in the vicinity have been penalized.
Sitapur Circle Officer Vinayak Bhosle commented to reporters, "Everyone is aware that the roads in the city are narrow and due to Navratri, there is a significant crowd on the streets. No one is permitted to stand without purpose here. Section 144 is active, and we are enforcing it by removing crowds from the roads."
Preparations for Azam Khan's welcome were also underway by SP district president Chhatrapal Singh Yadav.
In a statement to IANS, he added, "We have gathered to welcome him. He is our leader, and his return will further strengthen the party."
SP MLA Anil Kumar Verma, who also came to greet the senior leader, expressed, "After a prolonged period, the legal matters have been resolved. We extend our gratitude to 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. The FIR in this case was lodged at the Civil Lines police station in Rampur, prompting Khan to approach the High Court for bail.
Earlier, on September 10, the Allahabad High Court also approved his bail in another case concerning the alleged forceful eviction of residents from Rampur's Dungarpur colony.
Additionally, Khan was acquitted by a special MP-MLA court in a 17-year-old case involving accusations of road blockades and public property damage.
Over the years, a total of 16 FIRs have been registered against Azam Khan, encompassing a wide array of criminal allegations.
Point of View
Azam Khan's release signifies a critical juncture in Uttar Pradesh politics. His long absence had left a void in the Samajwadi Party, and with his return, there are expectations for renewed energy and direction. The impact of his legal battles on his political future remains to be seen, but his supporters are hopeful for a resurgence in influence and leadership.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Azam Khan jailed?
Azam Khan faced multiple legal issues, with 16 FIRs filed against him, involving various criminal charges.
What were the conditions of his bail?
His bail conditions included clearing a fine of Rs 8,000 related to two cases before his release.
What reaction has his release sparked?
His release has led to a significant gathering of supporters outside the jail, despite prohibitory orders in place.
What legal challenges did he face prior to his release?
He faced multiple cases, including land grab and forced eviction allegations, all of which he has sought to contest in court.
How does his release affect the Samajwadi Party?
His return is expected to bolster the party's morale and support base as he is considered a key leader.
