‘Thinking of You’: NY Mayor Zohran Mamdani Sends Handwritten Note for Umar Khalid

New Delhi: New York City's Indian-origin Mayor Zohran Mamdani has sent a handwritten letter to jailed student leader Omar Khalid. He handed this letter not directly to Umar but to his parents. Despite the distance of thousands of kilometers, this small message has become popular.

What did Mamdani say in the letter?

In the letter addressed to Omar Khalid, Zohran Mamdani wrote that he often remembers his words. Especially the point in which Umar had talked about protecting himself from bitterness even in difficult situations. Mamdani also wrote that it was nice to meet Omar's parents and that everyone keeps thinking about Omar. The tone of the letter was direct, simple, and personal.

When did you meet Umar Khalid's parents?

Umar Khalid's parents went to America in December 2025. He was there to meet his elder daughter, who could not come to India for a family wedding. During this time he met Zohran Mamdani. The conversation lasted long, and the atmosphere was relaxed. After that meeting, Mamdani wrote this letter.

How did this letter come before the people?

On the same day when Zohran Mamdani took oath as the Mayor of New York City, Omar Khalid's partner Bunojyotsna Lahiri shared the picture of this letter on social media. After this, this matter came into discussion.

Where is Umar Khalid now?

Umar Khalid has been in jail since 2020. In December, he was granted interim bail for some time to attend his sister's wedding. Due to the bail conditions, he could not go out of the house. During this time, he spent time with his family, ate food prepared by his mother, and spent time with his children. After the bail ended, he returned to jail again.

Did Mamdani and Omar Khalid already have a connection?

Last year, at an event held in New York, Zohran Mamdani read a letter written by Omar Khalid from the stage. In that letter, Umar had written that instead of getting angry with his circumstances, he tries to understand them. Mamdani had then said that these words force him to think even today.

Why did America raise questions on India's judicial process?

Meanwhile, US Congress member James P. McGovern has expressed concern about the matters related to the 2020 Delhi riots in India. He wrote a letter to India's ambassador to America saying that many people have been in jail for a long time before trial. According to him, in the reports of human rights organizations, no concrete evidence has been found to link Umar Khalid to any terrorist activity.

Why are we talking about international rules?

McGovern has said in his letter that according to international rules, any accused should get the right to a timely trial and should be considered innocent until proven guilty.