Rampur, Uttar Pradesh: Recent images of Samajwadi Party (SP) leaders Akhilesh Yadav and Azam Khan, clasping hands and embracing, have ignited speculation of a thaw in their relationship, effectively dispelling rumors of a significant rift within the party. The meeting, which took place at Khan's residence in Rampur on Wednesday, marks a potential turning point for the SP as it gears up for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.

Akhilesh Yadav's visit to Azam Khan's home was his first since Khan's release from prison in September, after spending 23 months behind bars in connection with multiple cases. The meeting is viewed as a strong signal of reconciliation and renewed unity within the SP's top ranks.

Amidst growing speculation about Azam Khan's disillusionment with the party leadership, Akhilesh sought to dispel such notions and hailed Khan's loyalty and resilience. "Azam Khan is the heartbeat of the Samajwadi Party," Akhilesh told reporters after the meeting. "He has faced false cases. The BJP has filed so many against him and his family that their names should be entered in the Guinness Book of World Records".

When asked directly if he was feeling alienated from the party, Azam Khan dismissed the claim, responding, "Where did you get this information?". His brief reply, coupled with Akhilesh's visit, appears to squash ongoing rumors of a rift between the two leaders.

Akhilesh Yadav also took the opportunity to criticize the BJP, stating that the PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, and Alpasankhyak) communities are being humiliated under the BJP's rule. He affirmed the Samajwadi Party's commitment to fighting for their justice and returning to power in 2027 to be their voice.

Security was visibly tightened in Rampur during the visit. Police cordoned off areas around Jauhar University, restricted media movement, and ensured the premises were closely monitored. Nevertheless, a large number of SP workers gathered outside, chanting slogans in support of both Akhilesh and Azam Khan.

Azam Khan, a founding member of the Samajwadi Party and a longtime confidant of the late Mulayam Singh Yadav, had been incarcerated in a slew of legal cases, many of which he and his party claim were politically motivated. His re-entry into the political spotlight, coupled with public support from Akhilesh, is being read as both a symbolic and strategic gesture ahead of the 2027 electoral battle.

Akhilesh described Khan as a senior leader, like a strong tree that has stood firm despite storms and said that he and his family have faced the maximum number of false cases among political families and deserve justice. Political observers view the meeting as a strategic move to consolidate the Muslim vote bank in western Uttar Pradesh, particularly in Rampur, Moradabad, and Amroha, where Azam Khan wields considerable influence.

The SP chief also took to social media, posting a picture with Azam Khan with the caption: “What can I say about the meeting, where only emotions spoke silently?”. He also promised to end false cases against Khan when elected to power in 2027.

This show of unity comes after weeks of speculation regarding Azam Khan's future within the party, fueled by his perceived distance from the SP leadership following his release. Khan's recent release on bail in the Quality Bar land grab case and acquittal in a 17-year-old case related to a road blockade have further solidified his position.

The meeting between Akhilesh Yadav and Azam Khan signals a potential resurgence of the Samajwadi Party, presenting a united front as they prepare for the upcoming elections.