SRINAGAR: Eight Democratic US lawmakers, led by Representatives Jim McGovern and Jamie Raskin, have written to India’s Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, urging authorities to grant bail to activist Umar Khalid and ensure a fair, timely trial, citing over five years of pretrial detention under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) as contrary to international norms. Business Today reported the letter highlights concerns over Khalid’s incarceration since September 2020 for alleged conspiracy in the 2020 Delhi riots, where he denies involvement.
The missive, addressed to Kwatra, respects India’s democracy but questions UAPA’s extended pre-trial use, seeking updates on trial delays and bail for Khalid and co-accused.
The appeal follows New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s reported handwritten note to Khalid, delivered via his parents during a US meeting, sparking sovereignty debates. Several news reports confirmed the lawmakers’ solidarity push, linking to Khalid’s JNU background and riot charges. NDTV highlighted BJP’s response alleging Rahul Gandhi ties to signatories like Jan Schakowsky, framing it as anti-India lobbying.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari criticised the intervention per Hindustan Times, calling Khalid a UAPA accused in violence cases. Khalid’s legal team pursues Supreme Court relief amid repeated bail denials, while supporters hail global scrutiny.
