The anticipated release of senior Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Azam Khan from Sitapur district jail, initially set for early Tuesday morning, has been postponed to later in the day due to unresolved court proceedings, officials confirmed.

Khan, a former Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister incarcerated for nearly two years on multiple charges, including a land-grabbing case, is expected to be freed on bail. His son, Adeeb Khan, along with hundreds of SP supporters, gathered outside the jail to welcome him, leading to significant traffic disruptions in the area.

Adeeb, addressing reporters, hailed his father as “the hero of the day,” stating, “Whatever has to be said, my father will say after coming out of jail.” Despite prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) imposed by the district administration to maintain order, supporters flocked to the jail premises, causing chaos.

Sitapur traffic police issued fines to several vehicles for violating restrictions, with City Circle Officer Vinayak Bhosle noting that action was necessary to prevent further complications due to the “rush and chaos.”

Prominent SP figures, including national secretary Anup Gupta and district president Chatrapati Yadav, joined the crowd, reflecting Khan’s significant influence within the party. The delay stems from unpaid fines in a Rampur case, with officials expecting resolution by afternoon after court proceedings. Khan’s release is a pivotal moment for the SP, with supporters anticipating his return to bolster the party’s position in Uttar Pradesh politics.

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The incident highlights ongoing tensions around high-profile political figures in judicial custody, with Khan’s case drawing attention due to his stature as a veteran SP leader. Authorities are on high alert to manage the crowd and ensure public safety as the situation unfolds.

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