Umar Khalid documentary row sparks political clash in Karnataka

A political controversy has erupted in Karnataka following remarks by Congress leader B. K. Hariprasad, who described jailed activist Umar Khalid as a ‘nationalist’. The statement was made in response to protests by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) against the scheduled screening of the documentary ‘Prisoner No. 626710 Is Present’ at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru.

The documentary, directed by Lalit Vachani, explores Khalid’s life and his six-year incarceration under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) following his arrest in connection with the 2020 Northeast Delhi riots. The ABVP demanded the permanent cancellation of the screening, arguing that academic institutions should not be platforms for political propaganda or the glorification of civil unrest.

In response to Hariprasad’s comments, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the Congress of appeasement politics and supporting those who seek to divide the country. Conversely, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge and Samajwadi Party leader ST Hasan defended Khalid, questioning why his trial has not proceeded despite years in custody and asserting his commitment to national integration.

The screening at NLSIU was postponed due to what organizers cited as ‘logistical and security considerations’. The incident has sparked a broader debate regarding freedom of expression on university campuses and the legal status of Khalid, who remains in custody without trial.