US lawmakers write to India’s envoy seeking a fair and timely trial for Umar Khalid after New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani voices support.

A group of eight United States lawmakers has formally urged the Indian government to ensure a fair and time-bound trial for jailed activist Umar Khalid, days after New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani publicly expressed solidarity with him. The appeal was conveyed through a letter addressed to India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra.

The communication was led by Congressman Jim McGovern, who cited concerns over Khalid’s prolonged incarceration under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in connection with the North-East Delhi riots conspiracy case. In a public post, McGovern said he and fellow lawmakers had recently met Khalid’s parents and were pressing for bail and a trial consistent with international legal standards.

The lawmakers argued that extended detention without trial raises questions around due process and proportionality, and sought details from Indian authorities on steps taken to align judicial proceedings with global human rights norms. The letter was co-signed by several members of Congress and the US Senate, including Jamie Raskin, Chris Van Hollen, Peter Welch, Pramila Jayapal, Rashida Tlaib, Jan Schakowsky, and Lloyd Doggett.

The renewed international attention follows a personal message from Mamdani, who was sworn in as New York Mayor this week. In a note shared online by Khalid’s partner, Mamdani recalled meeting Khalid’s parents and encouraged resilience during prolonged hardship.

Analysis: The intervention by US lawmakers highlights how prolonged legal cases can draw global scrutiny, especially when they intersect with human rights discourse. For India, the episode underscores the diplomatic sensitivity surrounding judicial transparency in high-profile cases.