'No Right to Intervene': Raza Murad, Gajendra Chauhan Slam Imran Khan
Actors Raza Murad and Gajendra Chauhan react after Mumbai Police ask US citizen Imran Khan to leave India following protest participation.
The entertainment industry is buzzing following the news that actor Imran Khan, nephew of superstar Aamir Khan, has been served a 'Leave India' notice by the Mumbai Police. The directive comes after the actor participated in a protest at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan, where demonstrators were calling for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. As a holder of an American passport, Imran Khan has been instructed to exit the country by October 28.
Raza Murad Defends Police Action
Veteran actor Raza Murad has voiced his strong disapproval of the actor's actions, emphasizing that foreign nationals must stay clear of India's domestic issues. Speaking to ANI, Murad asserted that since Imran Khan is a US citizen, he has no legal or moral standing to interfere in the internal affairs of India.
Murad stood by the Mumbai Police, stating that the authorities are operating strictly within the legal framework. He highlighted the leniency shown by the police, noting that the actor was not ordered to leave immediately but was instead granted a 15-day window to arrange his departure.
"Whether it is Imran Khan or any other foreign national, there is no reason to interfere in the internal affairs of our country," Murad stated.
The veteran actor further suggested that if Imran Khan feels the decision is unjust, he should seek legal remedy through the judiciary, adding that the final verdict of the court must be respected regardless of the result.
Gajendra Chauhan Questions 'Ingratitude'
Adding to the criticism, actor Gajendra Chauhan expressed deep disappointment over Imran Khan's decision to join the protests. Chauhan pointed out the specific restrictions associated with the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, arguing that such status does not grant the right to vote, contest elections, or engage in protests.
Chauhan argued that violating these laws should lead to strict punishment and even questioned why the authorities were giving the actor as much as 15 days to leave, suggesting a swifter exit would have been more appropriate.
A Violation of Values
Chauhan highlighted the irony of the actor's actions given the success he achieved in the Indian film industry. He reminded the actor of the fame, wealth, and affection he received from the Indian public.
"You have been such a big celebrity in India. You have earned a name, earned money, earned a position. Indians used to love you," Chauhan remarked, adding that participating in a protest against the law is a violation of the residential values under which he lived in India.
The situation remains tense as the October 28 deadline approaches, marking a rare and controversial intersection of celebrity status and national immigration law.