Zohran Mamdani's letter to Umar Khalid after becoming mayor of New York. A message of support for the imprisoned protestor.Mamdani wrote a letter to jailed JNU student Umar Khalid after taking oath as mayor of New York.
Umar Khalid's partner Banojyotsna Lahiri recently made this letter public. Although the letter is undated, its contents are very significant. Mamdani wrote, "Dear Umar, I often remember your words of deep sorrow. The importance of not letting yourself be consumed by sadness is immense. It was great to meet your parents. We are all thinking of you."
It is to be noted that Umar Khalid has been in jail since September 2020, accused under the UAPA section in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case. In early December, Umar Khalid's father, Syed Qasim Rasul Ilyas, met Mamdani while in America.
Umar Khalid's family claims that Zohran Mamdani's message of solidarity gives further international recognition to the struggle of South Asian human rights activists.
Zohrab Mamdani was sworn in as mayor on the steps of New York City Hall on January 1. The son of renowned film director Mira Nair and Ugandan theorist Mahmud Mamdani, Zohran describes himself as a 'democratic socialist'. His oath of office was administered by veteran senator and socialist political icon Bernie Sanders.
At the swearing-in ceremony, Mamdani made it clear that his administration would be for the common people and against corporate power. He said his administration would emphasize the unity of people, not individuals. Mamdani said, "I will not abandon my principles and ideals for fear of being labeled a fundamentalist." Mamdani proudly declared.
As per his election promises, Mamdani's administration will make transportation more accessible. Free childcare for children from the age of six months. Government shops will be opened to control the prices of essential items. A moratorium on rent increases in city housing.
At the event, Bernie Sanders shouted, "America's wealthy class needs to understand that they can't have it all alone. This country belongs to all of us, not just a handful." @freemang2001gmail-com
Pankaj Dhar Choudhury
Pankaj Dhar Choudhury, B.A Hons. in English, M.A in English, B.ED.
He passed Madhyamik from his native village Kumar Gram Duar of Alipurduar district. He got B.A Hons. in English from Alipurduar College. He completed M.A in English from North Bengal University, Siliguri. He completed B.ED from Maldah Govt. Teachers" Training College. He has been a social media activist since 2006.
Ethan Caldwell shares thoughtful insights and reflections on life, culture, and personal growth. His work explores the intersections of creativity and experience, offering readers unique perspectives.
