A political debate has emerged after letters from the United States surfaced in support of Umar Khalid, who is currently in jail in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots case. The letters, written by US-based political figures, have drawn attention to what critics describe as ideological backing for the jailed accused from overseas.

Two letters in particular have come under scrutiny. One was written by Zohran Mamdani, the Mayor of New York City and a prominent figure in left-leaning political circles in the US, while the other was signed by eight US lawmakers. According to the claims made, both letters raise similar concerns, differing mainly in their wording.

Zohran Mamdani’s Personal Letter to Umar Khalid Raises Eyebrows

Focus has largely centered on Mamdani’s letter, addressed directly to Umar Khalid. The four-line letter, written in December 2025, refers to Khalid as “dear” and states that Mamdani remembers his words, was glad to meet his parents, and remains concerned about him. This has prompted questions about why a political leader based nearly 13,000 kilometers away would write to an accused in the Delhi riots case and what connection exists between the two.

Khalid’s family has responded to the letter, and it has been pointed out that his family visited the United States in December 2025. It has been claimed that during this visit, attempts were made to project a narrative alleging injustice against a Muslim youth in India and to suggest that justice was being denied.

Eight US Lawmakers Demand Bail, Time-Bound Trial for Khalid

The second letter, signed by eight US lawmakers, expressed concern over Khalid being in jail for nearly five years and called for him to be granted bail. The lawmakers said the case should be heard in accordance with international legal standards and demanded a time-bound trial and a fair investigation.

Critics Slam Overseas ‘Ideological Backing’ Amid Riots Charges

Criticism surrounding the letters has focused on the fact that Umar Khalid is an accused in the Delhi riots case and faces allegations of instigating violence during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, as well as being part of a larger conspiracy. It has been stated that courts have already described him as an accused in a criminal conspiracy based on available evidence.

Questions have also been raised over what critics describe as selective concern, with allegations that while support is being extended to Khalid, there has been silence on violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.

It has further been argued that by writing such letters, Mamdani and the US lawmakers are questioning India’s judicial system. Reference has been made to the fact that Indian courts have granted bail to other accused in the Delhi riots cases, while Khalid remains in custody due to the seriousness of the charges against him.