Actor Imran Khan to Contest India Exit Order
Bollywood actor Imran Khan, a United States citizen and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder, is preparing to challenge a government directive ordering him to leave India. The notice, issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), mandates his departure by October 28, citing alleged breaches of the Foreigners Act and related immigration regulations.
Khan, who is the nephew of renowned actor Aamir Khan, is expected to file a petition with the Bombay High Court on October 16, seeking an urgent hearing to contest the FRRO's decision. He is being represented by advocates Zulfiquar Memon, Parvez Memon, and Chirag Naik of MZM Legal LLP.
The Mumbai Protest and Official Complaint
The FRRO's notice stems from Khan's involvement in a demonstration held on October 10 at Mumbai's August Kranti Maidan. The protest called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar amidst allegations concerning the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Khan was among several individuals detained by Mumbai Police during the protest, though he was subsequently released.
Following the event, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya lodged a complaint at Gamdevi police station. Somaiya alleged that Khan’s participation in a political protest constituted a violation of the rules applicable to foreign nationals in India. The police forwarded this complaint to the FRRO, which then issued the controversial 'leave India' notice.
Citizenship Status and Legal Implications
As an OCI cardholder, Imran Khan enjoys certain privileges, including long-term, multiple-entry travel to India. However, an OCI card does not confer Indian citizenship and foreign nationals are subject to specific regulations under laws like the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. These statutes grant authorities the power to regulate the stay of foreign nationals and, in certain circumstances, direct their removal from the country.
BJP Leader's Stance on Foreign Participation
Kirit Somaiya defended his demand for action against the actor, stating that foreign nationals should not engage in political activities within India. Speaking to The Indian Express, Somaiya articulated his belief that Khan's potential deportation would "set an example for all other foreigners and funders whose objective is to generate unrest and anarchy." He did not, however, provide specific evidence for broader claims of foreign funding or name other foreign nationals involved.