New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani Pens Heartfelt Note to Jailed Activist Umar Khalid
In a heartwarming gesture, New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani recently sent a handwritten note to activist Umar Khalid, who is currently incarcerated. The note was personally handed over to Khalid’s parents during a meeting in the United States in December 2025.
Addressing Khalid in the message, Mayor Mamdani reflected on the importance of not letting bitterness consume one’s self. He expressed his pleasure at meeting Khalid’s parents and assured him that they are all thinking of him during this challenging time.
A photograph of the note was shared on X by Khalid’s partner, Bunojyotsana Lahiri, coinciding with Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony as mayor.
Lahiri revealed that Khalid’s parents, Sahiba Khanam and Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas, were visiting the US to attend a family wedding when they had the opportunity to meet Mayor Mamdani. The note was penned during their interaction, showcasing Mamdani’s support for Khalid.
Umar Khalid’s Legal Battle
Khalid, who has been detained since 2020 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, was granted interim bail in December to attend his sister’s wedding. During this period, he remained at home, adhering to court conditions, and spent valuable time with his family before returning to jail.
Notably, in 2023, Mayor Mamdani had previously highlighted Khalid’s resilience at an event in New York, where he shared excerpts from a letter written by Khalid emphasizing the importance of not succumbing to bitterness in challenging circumstances.
International Support for Umar Khalid
In a show of solidarity, eight US lawmakers have penned a letter urging the Indian Government to ensure a fair trial for Umar Khalid in accordance with international law. Representative Jim McGovern and seven other lawmakers emphasized the need for Khalid to receive bail and a timely trial, aligning with international standards of justice.
The letter, addressed to India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, underscores the lawmakers’ concern for Khalid’s prolonged detention without trial and calls for adherence to international human rights standards.
The signatories of the letter, including Congressman Jamie Raskin, Senator Chris Van Hollen, and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, among others, stress the importance of upholding Khalid’s rights to a fair trial within a reasonable timeframe.
As the legal battle continues, international pressure mounts on the Indian government to ensure justice for Umar Khalid and his co-accused. The support from US lawmakers underscores the significance of a fair and transparent judicial process for all individuals.
It remains to be seen how the legal proceedings unfold for Umar Khalid in the coming days, with global attention focused on upholding the principles of justice and fairness.
(With inputs from agencies)
