Senior Samajwadi Party leader Mohammad Azam Khan and his son Abdullah Azam received prison sentences of up to seven years for forgery on Monday. A special MP/MLA court in Rampur delivered the verdict related to the procurement of two PAN cards under different identities, a prosecution officer confirmed.
Special Magistrate Shobhit Bansal declared both Azam Khan and his son guilty after evaluating substantial documentary evidence and eyewitness statements. The ruling came after an extensive trial stemming from charges filed in 2019, which significantly tarnishes the political image of the senior leader.
According to Rakesh Kumar Maurya, the prosecution officer, the court’s judgment reflects the seriousness of the fraud committed. He noted that the prosecution would review the case and might appeal if it finds the sentencing inadequate.
Maurya confirmed that following the conviction, both Azam Khan and Abdullah Khan would be taken into custody. “Yes, absolutely,” he asserted when questioned about potential detention.
The case traces back to a complaint lodged by BJP leader Akash Saxena at Rampur’s Civil Lines police station. The charges against the duo include IPC sections 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security), 468 (forgery for cheating), 471 (using forged document), and 120-B (criminal conspiracy).
Prosecutors highlighted that Abdullah had fraudulently obtained a PAN card from the Income Tax Department, listing his date of birth as January 1, 1993. This date allegedly corresponded with his school records and State Bank of India account details, showcasing a clear intent to deceive.
The court found that Abdullah obtained the forged PAN card “in conspiracy with his father,” using it for various official purposes, raising questions about ethical conduct and accountability in political circles.
This conviction signifies a turn in the political narrative surrounding Azam Khan, known for his influential role in Uttar Pradesh politics. The Samajwadi Party may now face pressures amidst public scrutiny as the implications of the ruling unfold.
The case serves as a reminder of the stringent legal consequences for political figures involved in forgery and deceit. As the legal procedure continues, all eyes will remain on potential developments, including possible appeals and further repercussions for Khan’s party affiliation.
