Azam Khan Claims Muslim Identity Cost Him; NDA Leaders React

A fresh controversy has erupted around Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan after his claims following a fresh arrest. Khan, who was released from Rampur jail on Saturday, was detained by the Enforcement Directorate within minutes of stepping out.

The Allahabad High Court had earlier suspended his sentence in a 2019 fake PAN card case and granted bail to him and his son, Abdullah Azam Khan. The ED then arrested him in a separate money laundering matter.

Speaking after the arrest, Khan said he was bearing the brunt of being a Muslim and was being punished for building a university. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav termed the action a conspiracy.

The remarks triggered strong responses from NDA leaders on Sunday. In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh minister Bhupendra Chaudhary said the nation runs on a constitutional system and that the judiciary commands the trust of everyone. He added that the state government would act in accordance with court orders.

Chaudhary further said that all agencies are working in a fair manner. Those who have not committed any wrong, he said, have nothing to fear, while those involved in unethical or illegal activities would face lawful action.

Another minister, Asim Arun, also reacted to the arrest. He alleged that Khan had built an empire worth thousands of crores through corruption in Rampur and other places. Arun said all the evidence is on record and that the courts would decide on bail or jail.

Arun reiterated that the government is determined to establish a system of full honesty. He declared that no one would be spared, be it Azam Khan or any other big leader.

In Mumbai, Shiv Sena spokesperson Anand Dubey launched a pointed attack as well. He said investigating agencies must ensure that no one misuses the country's money. He asked why Khan was lamenting if action was being taken and urged him to prove his innocence in court.

Dubey also mocked Khan, saying that a man who once had police posted to guard his buffaloes was now scared of the ED. He said that whoever sows will reap, and that Khan and those who supported him would have to bear the results of their deeds.