
Fri Jan 02 12:14:49 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India has strongly criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for commenting on the detention of activist Umar Khalid. Khalid, along with others, is accused of masterminding the 2020 Delhi riots and has been charged under the UAPA. Mamdani wrote a note of support to Khalid, which was posted online by Khalid’s partner. The BJP views Mamdani’s action as interference in India’s internal affairs and a challenge to its sovereignty, vowing that India will not tolerate such actions. The BJP defends the Indian judiciary and questions Mamdani’s right to comment on a case involving someone accused of wanting to “break India.”
News Article:
BJP Condemns New York City Mayor for Commenting on Umar Khalid Case
New Delhi, January 2, 2026 – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has issued a sharp rebuke to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for his remarks regarding jailed activist Umar Khalid. Khalid is currently facing charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots.
The controversy arose after a handwritten note from Mayor Mamdani to Khalid, expressing support and solidarity, was posted on social media by Khalid’s partner.
At a press conference held at the party headquarters today, BJP National Spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia accused Mamdani of “interfering in India’s internal matters.” Bhatia questioned Mamdani’s standing to comment on the case, particularly given the serious allegations against Khalid, whom he accused of wanting to “break India.”
“If anybody comes out in support of any accused and interferes in India’s internal matters, the country will not tolerate it,” Bhatia stated. He further asserted that India’s sovereignty would be defended by its 140 crore citizens under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized the Indian people’s faith in the country’s judiciary.
Khalid, along with several others, faces charges under the UAPA and provisions of the IPC, accused of being the masterminds behind the February 2020 Delhi riots, which resulted in significant casualties and injuries. The UAPA is a stringent anti-terror law, making it difficult for those accused to obtain bail.