Azam Khan’s security protection has been reinstated following his release from Sitapur jail on September 23. A senior police official confirmed this to PTI, although the specific level of security provided remains unspecified. Khan, a prominent leader of the Samajwadi Party (SP), was previously assigned Y category security, which is granted based on threat assessments. Upon his release on bail, the same level of security has been restored. Y security comes in two tiers: Y and the slightly elevated Y +, both designated for individuals facing moderate security risks. The Y category typically includes around eight security personnel, while Y + has a few additional guards.
Currently, Khan is protected by five constables and three gunners, suggesting he is receiving Y level security. After spending 23 months in jail, Khan, a founding member of the SP, was released on bail. Following his release, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav visited him on October 8, the day before a rally in Lucknow led by Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati, and described the charges against Khan as ‘fake.’ Yadav expressed confidence that if the SP returns to power in the upcoming 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections, all such cases would be dismissed.
Khan, who has served as an MLA for a record ten terms, expressed gratitude to those who supported him and dismissed rumors of joining the BSP, although he had previously praised Mayawati, which surprised many.