U.S. Lawmakers Seek Bail and Fair Trial for Umar Khalid, Raise Due Process Concerns

A group of eight lawmakers from the United States has written to Indian authorities asking for bail and a fair trial for Umar Khalid, who has been in jail since 2020 in connection with cases linked to the North East Delhi violence.

In their letter, the U.S. lawmakers urged that judicial proceedings against Khalid follow international standards of justice. They asked Indian authorities to explain the steps being taken to ensure fairness, timely hearings, and respect for legal rights. The lawmakers expressed concern over the length of Khalid’s detention without regular bail.

The letter was addressed to India’s Ambassador in the United States and was dated December 30, 2025. It was signed by several members of the U.S. Congress, including representatives and senators known for working on human rights issues.

The lawmakers stated that Khalid has spent nearly five years in jail under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. They argued that long periods of detention without trial raise serious concerns about due process and the principle that a person is innocent until proven guilty.

This international attention follows a separate note written by Zohran Mamdani, the newly sworn-in Mayor of New York City. In his message, Mamdani recalled his earlier interactions with Khalid and said he often reflects on Khalid’s writings about resisting bitterness. The note was shared publicly by Khalid’s partner and delivered to Khalid’s parents during their visit to the United States.

Khalid was recently granted interim bail for a short period to attend his sister’s wedding. The bail came with strict conditions, including limits on movement and social interaction. After the wedding period ended, he returned to custody.

Khalid’s regular bail plea is still pending before India’s Supreme Court. The case continues to draw attention both within India and internationally, especially in discussions around civil liberties, national security laws, and judicial delays.