India Rebukes NY Mayor for Support to Jailed Activist

India criticized New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani for his note to jailed activist Umar Khalid, stressing the importance of respecting judiciary independence in democracies. Mamdani's solidarity message, delivered by Khalid's parents, drew a rebuke from India's External Affairs Ministry, highlighting the need to avoid personal biases in official positions.

India expressed disapproval of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's overture to imprisoned activist Umar Khalid, cautioning public figures to respect judicial independence in fellow democracies.

Mamdani, of Indian descent, communicated his solidarity to Khalid through a handwritten letter delivered during Khalid's parents' US visit.

The External Affairs Ministry called for a focus on official responsibilities over personal biases, amid Khalid's continued denial of bail since his 2020 arrest under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act related to Delhi's 2020 clashes.

(With inputs from agencies.)