Statement on letter led by Jim McGovern and Jamie Raskin on Umar Khalid

2026-01-01

Justice For All welcomes the congressional letter to the Embassy of India regarding the continued incarceration of scholar and activist Umar Khalid. The letter is led by Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA2) and Jamie Raskin (D-MD8).

The letter asks for granting bail to Umar Khalid, and have him remain free while the Supreme Court of India proceeds on the case against him. It also recognizes the brief respite given to Khalid as he was released on bail to attend his sister’s wedding. Khalid has been held without bail for years under India’s draconian Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

Justice For All is particularly encouraged that the letter refers to the victims list of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF). Justice For All submitted detailed profiles, evidence, and statements to USCIRF for all four individuals named in the letter nearly four years ago. This acknowledgment underscores the long-term value of sustained documentation and advocacy, and reinforces the need to continue this work moving forward.

https://x.com/RepMcGovern/status/2006129963057951133