The verdict is seen as a major setback for the Samajwadi Party before the local elections; supporters express concern, while further legal options remain open
RAMPUR — A court in Rampur in Uttar Pradesh has rejected the appeal filed by senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan and his son Abdullah Azam Khan, confirming that both will remain in jail in connection with the dual PAN card case.
The MP-MLA session court delivered its verdict on Monday, refusing to grant relief to the Samajwadi Party leaders. The court upheld the earlier order of the magistrate’s court, which had found both guilty in a case.
Earlier, the MP-MLA magistrate court had sentenced both Azam Khan and Abdullah Azam to seven years in prison. A fine of ₹50,000 each was also imposed.
Seeking relief, the father and son had approached the session court. However, the latest ruling has made it clear that they will have to continue serving their sentence for now.
A lawyer associated with the case said, “The session court has carefully reviewed the matter and found no grounds to interfere with the earlier judgment.” He added, “The conviction and sentence remain in force.”
The case centres on allegations that Abdullah Azam possessed two PAN cards, which is not permitted under Indian law. The court had earlier taken a strict view of the matter, leading to the conviction of both leaders.
Political observers say the decision is significant for the Samajwadi Party, especially at a time when local body elections are approaching in the state. A party worker in Rampur said, “This decision has disappointed many supporters. We were hoping for some relief from the higher court.”
Another supporter stated, “Azam Khan has been a strong voice for many people. His absence from active politics is being felt.”
Legal experts note that the option of approaching a higher court is still open. “They can challenge the session court’s order in the high court,” said one advocate, adding that the legal process is not yet over.
Azam Khan, a senior leader and former cabinet minister in Uttar Pradesh, has been a key figure in state politics for decades. His son, Abdullah Azam, has also been active in politics and served as a legislator.
With the appeal now rejected, attention is likely to shift to the next legal step, even as the political impact of the ruling continues to be discussed across the state.
