Azam Khan Convicted In Controversial Statement Case, Sentenced To 2 Years In Jail

Rampur: Azam Khan's 2019 election speech trapped him again after 6 years. The MP/MLA court has found him guilty in the case of making objectionable remarks on the then DM. The court gave its verdict after completing the hearing. Breaking of election code of conduct and indecent language against the officer were made the basis. After the decision, both Azam's legal troubles and political difficulties have increased. 

What was the matter?

An election meeting was going on in Rampur in 2019. Azam Khan lashed out at the administrative officers from the stage. The video of the speech went viral the same day. The Election Commission immediately asked for the report. Later the district administration lodged an FIR and the case reached the court. 

What was the ruckus about?

According to the prosecution, Azam Khan had abused the District Magistrate Anjaneya Kumar Singh. The opposition called it an attack on the government machinery and the dignity of the officer. The matter went from a war of words to the court. 

What did the judge say?

The court clearly said that abusing an officer holding a constitutional post from a public platform is against democratic decorum. Video recordings, statements of witnesses and documents were considered solid evidence. On the basis of these, Azam Khan was convicted. 

Will there be a direct impact on the political career?

Sources are saying that along with declaring him guilty, the court has also sentenced him. Lawyers say that if there is a punishment of 2 years or more, there will be a direct impact on the political career. The defense is now preparing to go to the High Court. 

Why is Azam Khan already surrounded?

Azam Khan has an old connection with the case. Land grabbing, fake papers, inflammatory speeches, administrative irregularities, more than 90 cases are registered. Arrested in 2020 and spent 27 months in jail. He has also retired from MLA in 2023 after serving 7 years of imprisonment in the fake birth certificate case. Currently lodged in Rampur jail. 

Why did SP's tension increase?

Azam Khan is considered the biggest Muslim face of SP. Rampur is his political land. This decision of the court may shake the electoral calculations of the party. At present the SP leaders have maintained silence. No one spoke openly. 

What next?

Azam's legal team will appeal in the High Court. The politics of Rampur are sure to boil again. The SP will engage in damage control. At present Azam Khan is in jail and the path to come out has become longer.