'Unacceptable': Chirag Paswan Slams Foreign Interference After Actor Imran Khan's 'Leave India' Notice
Union Minister Chirag Paswan slams foreign interference after actor Imran Khan received a 'Leave India' notice for protesting in Mumbai.
Union Minister Chirag Paswan has voiced strong opposition to the involvement of non-Indian citizens in the domestic affairs of the country. His remarks come in the wake of a 'Leave India' notice issued to actor Imran Khan, who is reportedly being asked to depart from the country following his participation in political protests.
Non-Citizens Cannot Intervene: Chirag Paswan
Speaking to journalists in Patna, Chirag Paswan emphasized that while he is a staunch supporter of the democratic right to peaceful protest for Indian citizens, that right does not extend to foreign nationals. He termed the intervention of non-citizens in India's internal matters as "unacceptable."
The Union Minister highlighted a deeper concern regarding the influence of external elements on domestic stability. He stated that it is unjustifiable for someone without Indian citizenship to play a role in the country's internal affairs, especially amidst growing worries that foreign forces might be orchestrating such events.
"There is no objection to Indian citizens playing a role in matters concerning India while living within the country. I have always supported peaceful protests. However, I do not consider it justifiable for someone who is not an Indian citizen to intervene in India's internal affairs," Paswan remarked.
The Controversy Surrounding Imran Khan
The legal heat began on Thursday when the Mumbai Police issued a 'Leave India' notice to Imran Khan, the nephew of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan. The notice directs him to exit the country by October 28.
Why was the notice issued?
- Protest Participation: Imran Khan took part in a demonstration at Mumbai's August Kranti Maidan, where protesters were demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
- Citizenship Status: Reports indicate that Imran Khan holds an American passport.
- Legal Violations: Action has been initiated against him under Sections 7 and 29 of the Immigration Act, based on allegations that he engaged in political protests despite not being an Indian citizen.
In response to the directive issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), Imran Khan approached the Bombay High Court on Saturday to challenge the notice and the alleged violations of the Foreigners Act.
Paswan Mourns Kolkata Durga Puja Tragedy
During the same press interaction in Patna, Union Minister Chirag Paswan also addressed the heartbreaking incident at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata. A stampede and the collapse of the pandal on Saturday resulted in the deaths of 19 people and left 25 others injured.
Expressing his deep sorrow, Paswan described the event as a "tragic incident" and offered his prayers for the victims. He noted that the Chief Minister is personally conducting a comprehensive review of the disaster to understand what went wrong.
The Minister concluded by praying for the speedy recovery of the injured and seeking strength for the families who lost their loved ones in the tragedy.