“All Cases Will Be Withdrawn After Our Government Is Formed,” Says Akhilesh Yadav After Emotional Reunion With Azam Khan in Rampur

Rampur: In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav met senior leader Azam Khan at his residence in Rampur on Wednesday (October 8), calling him “the foundation” and “the root” of the party. This marked their first meeting since Azam Khan’s release from Sitapur Jail on September 22, nearly 23 months after his conviction.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Akhilesh Yadav said, “I have come today at the residence of Azam Khan Ji to meet him and also to enquire about his health and well-being. He is the root of our party, and with such deep roots, their shade has always been with us.”

The former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister made a strong statement of solidarity, declaring that all cases filed against Azam Khan would be withdrawn once the Samajwadi Party returns to power.

“In 2027, our government is going to be formed, and the voice of PDA will be strengthened,” Yadav asserted.

Describing the meeting as an emotional one, Yadav later took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, “What can one say of that tale of the meeting… Where only emotions spoke in silence.”

During his interaction with the media, Akhilesh Yadav emphasised that Azam Khan’s political and ideological influence remains vital to the SP’s identity.

“I have come to meet him (Azam Khan). Azam Khan Sahab is a very senior leader. His profound influence has always been with us. This is a big fight, and we will all fight it together,” he said.

However, when asked about Muhiubullah Nadvi, Yadav declined to comment, choosing to remain silent on the issue.

The meeting is being seen as a powerful show of unity within the Samajwadi Party and a signal that Azam Khan’s role in the party remains central despite his legal battles. With 37 MPs and 107 MLAs — including 34 Muslim MLAs and four Muslim MPs — the SP is aiming to consolidate its traditional support base as it prepares for the next big political battle in Uttar Pradesh.