File photo of Umar Khalid (Image: PTI)

New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani wrote a handwritten note to jailed activist Umar Khalid, expressing solidarity and recalling Umar Khalid’s reflections on not allowing bitterness to define one’s life. The note was delivered to Umar Khalid’s parents during their visit to the United States in December 2025 and was made public when Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as mayor.

In the message addressed to Umar Khalid, Zohran Mamdani wrote that he often thinks of Umar Khalid’s words on bitterness and the importance of not letting it consume a person. He also mentioned meeting Umar Khalid’s parents and added that many people were thinking of him. A photograph of the note was shared on social media by Umar Khalid’s partner Banojyotsna Lahiri.

Banojyotsna Lahiri said Umar Khalid’s parents, Sahiba Khanam and Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas, were in the US to visit their daughter ahead of a family wedding. During that trip, they met Zohran Mamdani and spent time with him, following which he wrote the note for Umar Khalid.

Umar Khalid has been in jail since 2020 under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. He was granted interim bail in December to attend his sister’s wedding. Banojyotsna Lahiri said Umar Khalid remained at home during the bail period in compliance with court conditions and returned to jail after spending time with family members.

What Is Umar Khalid Accused Of?

Umar Khalid, a former student activist, was arrested in September 2020 in connection with the violence that broke out in north-east Delhi in February that year, following protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act. The prosecution alleges that Umar Khalid was part of a larger conspiracy to incite or plan the violence. He has been charged under multiple sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, along with provisions related to rioting, unlawful assembly, promoting enmity between groups and other offences linked to the riots.

Investigating agencies claim Umar Khalid played a role in mobilising protests that later turned violent. Umar Khalid has denied all allegations, saying he has been targeted for his political speech and activism.