ABU DHABI: Abdullah Azam Khan, the ex-MLA from the Samajwadi Party, was released from Hardoi jail on Tuesday, following his 17-month imprisonment. His release has garnered attention not only due to his political connection but also the multiple legal challenges he faces.
Abdullah's exit from prison was met with enthusiasm as supporters gathered outside to welcome him back. Dressed in traditional white kurta-pyjama paired with a sleeveless waistcoat and sporting long hair tied back, Abdullah stepped out of incarceration ready to greet his supporters.
The 34-year-old politician is the son of Azam Khan, the veteran SP leader who himself remains detained on various charges since 2017. Over the years, Abdullah has found himself embroiled in as many as 42 lawsuits, with the most notable being related to the 'custodian property misuse' case from 2020. According to Abdullah's lawyer, Zubair Ahmad Khan, the latest case was the final hurdle for the former MLA to secure his freedom.
“This was the last matter remaining against my client. He was granted bail in other cases,” said Zubair Ahmad after the court proceedings. Abdullah’s release came after the MP-MLA special magistrate trial court granted him bail, setting forth the requisite legal structure to allow him to walk free.
Despite his release, political rival and BJP MLA Akash Saxena expressed caution about Abdullah’s return, stating, “He has only got bail, not acquitted. I'll continue to strongly advocate this matter.” Saxena's criticisms included questioning the size of the convoy accompanying Abdullah following his release, hinting at potential connections to criminal elements.
While supporters gathered to cheer for him, he did not comment directly to the press. Instead, his lawyer spoken out on behalf, emphasizing the persecution faced by the Khan family. “Today, we thank God, Allah, and Waheguru for paving the way for Abdullah Bhai's release. He will finally walk free and return home today,” said Satnam Singh Nattu.
Ruchi Veera, another SP leader and MP who was present during Abdullah's release, reiterated confidence in the judicial process, saying, “We had confidence before, and we still do. Justice has been served, and we are grateful,” reflecting the sense of triumph from his supporters.
Abdullah was sentenced to seven years of jail just months prior, following the court ruling on October 18, 2023, concerning his fraudulent birth certificate case. The legal wrangling surrounding Abdullah’s case showcased not only his political significance but also the persistent intersecting lines of law and politics within Uttar Pradesh.
Despite Abdullah's jubilant return to Rampur, the cloud of legal scrutiny looms large. With more than 45 counts against him, including charges linked to machine theft and others still to address, many wonder what the future holds for him.
His release signifies yet another chapter for the Khan family as Azam Khan, his father, continues to serve time at Sitapur jail under indictments of land grabbing and other serious charges. Political dynamics will remain tense as Abdullah seeks to rebuild his political image and navigate the electoral challenges to come.
Abdullah's supporters, who filled the streets during his release, showed unwavering loyalty, chanting his name and signaling their hopes of restoring his political career. Meanwhile, for opponents like Saxena, the battle is far from over, and the legal battles of the Khan family will continue to unfurl within the public and political arenas.
Many are taking measure of the timing of his release against the backdrop of the political weather, pondering the highs and lows of his career and the road back to stability for Abdullah Azam Khan.