The release of senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan faced unexpected delays on Tuesday morning. Supporters of the veteran politician had gathered outside Sitapur Jail from early hours. They expected his release at 7 a.m., but the process could not be completed. Reports indicate that Azam Khan will only walk free once an outstanding fine of eight thousand rupees is cleared.
Morning anticipation at Sitapur Jail
As news spread about Azam Khan’s release, hundreds of his loyal supporters reached Sitapur Jail early in the morning. Many of them carried banners, flowers, and sweets to celebrate the moment. His son, Adeb Azam, also arrived at the prison to welcome his father after a long gap of 23 months. People waited eagerly at the gates, believing he would step out around 7 a.m. The excitement turned into anxiety as the clock ticked, but there was no sign of the leader.
Reason behind the delay
The reason for the delay soon became clear. Officials informed supporters that his release was stuck because of unpaid challans. An amount of around eight thousand rupees was pending, and until this was cleared, the jail authorities could not proceed. Court offices were still closed at that hour, which meant the payment could only be processed once the court reopened at 10 a.m. This procedural delay turned an expected celebration into a tense wait.
Release orders already issued
It is important to note that the Sitapur Jail authorities had already received release orders for Azam Khan. Out of the 72 cases registered against him, the MP-MLA sessions court had recently granted relief in 19 cases. This paved the way for his release after almost two years in custody. His followers had been preparing since Monday evening, confident that their leader would finally return home. However, the technical issue of pending challans blocked his immediate release.
Supporters’ reaction to the delay
Supporters who had camped outside the jail since dawn grew restless. Many questioned why such a small amount of eight thousand rupees could cause such a big delay. For them, the long wait of 23 months made every minute feel longer. Chants in favor of Azam Khan echoed outside the prison gates as his loyalists tried to boost each other’s morale. The delay also attracted local media, adding to the growing pressure on officials.
Legal troubles far from over
Even though Azam Khan is expected to walk out of Sitapur Jail after the challan is cleared, his legal troubles are not over. A court has summoned him personally on October 1 in connection with allegations of tampering with official records and destroying evidence. This indicates that his legal journey will continue even after his release.
Past controversies
Azam Khan, a former minister in Uttar Pradesh and a heavyweight in the Samajwadi Party, has faced numerous allegations over the years. In the past, cases involving enemy property led to significant controversies. Although the Rampur police granted him and his son Abdullah Azam a clean chit last year, the matter resurfaced with new charges. Recently, an additional chargesheet was filed under IPC sections 467, 471, and 201. The court, after hearing objections from both sides, took cognizance of these charges only three days ago. This has once again placed the veteran leader in a difficult legal position.
Court’s strict stance
The court has made it clear that Azam Khan must appear in person on October 1. This directive reflects the seriousness with which the judiciary is treating the matter. Charges of record manipulation and evidence destruction fall under serious criminal offenses, and the court has not granted any relaxation in this regard. This summons ensures that his legal challenges will continue even after his release from Sitapur Jail.
Political significance of his release
Azam Khan’s release is not just a personal relief but also a significant political moment. As a founding member of the Samajwadi Party, his influence extends across Uttar Pradesh, especially in Rampur. His imprisonment for nearly 23 months has already created political ripples. With the upcoming Bihar Assembly Election 2025 and later the Uttar Pradesh polls in focus, his presence in active politics could once again energize his supporters.
Family and followers remain hopeful
Despite the procedural setback, Azam Khan’s family and supporters remain optimistic. His son, Adeb Azam, spoke to supporters outside the jail, urging them to stay calm. He reminded them that the release is only delayed, not canceled. For his followers, seeing him walk out after nearly two years is an emotional moment. They believe his return will strengthen the Samajwadi Party and re-energize the cadre.
Long wait for freedom
Azam Khan has spent the past 23 months inside Sitapur Jail, facing multiple charges. His time in prison has been marked by continuous legal battles, hearings, and court orders. For a leader of his stature, this period has been particularly challenging. Many of his supporters argue that the cases against him were politically motivated. His release, therefore, is being seen as both a personal victory and a political comeback.
Role of courts and legal procedures
The delay caused by an unpaid challan highlights the importance of legal procedures in the justice system. No matter how influential a person is, every procedural requirement must be met. The courts have already shown their intent by summoning him personally in early October. This balance between relief and accountability ensures that justice remains impartial.
Media attention on the release
The news of Azam Khan’s delayed release has drawn massive media attention. Reporters from across Uttar Pradesh gathered outside Sitapur Jail to cover the unfolding drama. Live visuals of restless supporters and long waits dominated local news channels. For media houses, the story captured both legal and political angles, making it one of the most significant developments of the day.
Anticipation of supporters
As the clock moved closer to 10 a.m., supporters grew louder in their chants. The hope of finally seeing their leader walk free overshadowed the frustration caused by the delay. People brought garlands, sweets, and flags, determined to celebrate once the gates opened. For many, it was not just about his release but also about the symbolic return of their political strength.
What lies ahead for Azam Khan
While his release is imminent after the fine payment, challenges remain. The summons for October 1 looms large, and the additional charges filed recently may prolong his legal struggles. However, his return to active political life seems certain. His party colleagues are already preparing for his re-entry, expecting him to play a key role in upcoming campaigns.
The release of Azam Khan from Sitapur Jail has turned into a dramatic affair. A pending challan of eight thousand rupees delayed the process, frustrating supporters who had gathered since morning. Yet, his eventual release after 23 months in custody marks an important moment in Uttar Pradesh politics. Even though legal hurdles remain, his return is expected to boost the morale of the Samajwadi Party. The coming weeks will reveal whether his freedom brings new challenges or a chance for political resurgence.
