For the first time since his release from jail, senior Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Azam Khan has opened up about his experiences behind bars, the allegations against him, and his perspective on Muslim politics, particularly in the context of the upcoming Bihar elections. Khan, a towering figure in Uttar Pradesh politics for decades, spent nearly two years in Sitapur jail facing a slew of criminal cases, many of which he claims are politically motivated.
In an exclusive interaction, Khan accused his political rivals of orchestrating a vendetta against him and his family. He asserted that the numerous cases filed against him, largely concerning alleged irregularities related to the construction and management of Maulana Ali Jauhar University in Rampur, were aimed at tarnishing his image and curtailing his political influence. These charges include land grabbing, corruption, tax evasion, and money laundering. Khan maintains his innocence, claiming the charges are baseless and a result of a conspiracy to undermine him.
"Legal experts say that three cases against Khan are on the verge of completion". These include a 2019 hate speech case for allegedly inciting the public against police during Lok Sabha polls in Rampur, a 2018 derogatory remarks case for allegedly making insulting remarks against late SP leader Amar Singh and his family, and a 2017 armed forces remarks case for allegedly making demeaning comments about the Indian Army.
Khan's release from jail in September 2025, after the Allahabad High Court granted him bail in the last pending case against him, has sparked speculation about his future political course. While SP chief Akhilesh Yadav has vowed to withdraw all "false cases" against Khan once the party assumes power in Uttar Pradesh, political observers are keenly watching whether Khan will remain with the SP or choose a different path ahead of the 2027 state elections. Some analysts suggest that Khan is unhappy with Yadav's handling of his incarceration, believing that Yadav did not mount a strong enough campaign to protest his arrests.
Despite these tensions, Khan's influence among Muslim voters, particularly in constituencies like Rampur, Moradabad, and parts of western Uttar Pradesh, remains significant. This influence is particularly relevant in the context of the upcoming Bihar elections, where the SP is part of the INDIA bloc. The party recently named Khan as one of its 20 star campaigners for the Bihar polls, signaling its intent to consolidate minority support and reinforce its influence in key constituencies.
When asked about Tejashwi Yadav's efforts to attract Muslim voters in Bihar, Khan emphasized the importance of secularism and the need for Muslims to support political forces that are reliable and committed to their well-being. He suggested that Muslims are closely observing the political landscape and will not blindly support any party, but will instead align with those who have a proven track record of addressing their concerns and protecting their interests.
Khan's release and re-entry into active politics have undoubtedly stirred the political pot in Uttar Pradesh and beyond. His decisions in the coming months will be crucial in shaping the political landscape and determining the future of Muslim representation in the region. Whether he remains with the SP or chooses a new course, his voice will continue to resonate, particularly among the Muslim community, as the country gears up for future electoral battles.
