NYC Mayor Zoran Mamdani Writes to Jailed Activist Umar Khalid; 8 US Lawmakers Urge Fair Trial

New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani has sparked a political storm in India after writing a personal letter to jailed activist Umar Khalid. The letter, in which Mamdani recalls Khalid's words on bitterness, surfaced alongside an appeal by eight US lawmakers urging the Indian Ambassador to ensure a fair trial for Khalid. Congress leader Udit Raj welcomed the intervention, asserting that 'bail is the rule and jail the exception.' In contrast, the VHP slammed Mamdani, questioning his right to interfere in India's internal matters and alleging selective outreach. The report highlights the growing international attention on Khalid's prolonged detention.