Imran Khan Fights 'Leave India' Order in Bombay High Court
Actor Imran Khan moves Bombay High Court after FRRO orders him to leave India by Oct 28 for allegedly violating the Foreigners Act during a protest.
Bollywood actor Imran Khan, nephew of superstar Aamir Khan, has moved the Bombay High Court to challenge a "leave India" notice (LIN) issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). The notice mandates that the actor exit the country by October 28, following allegations that he violated the Foreigners Act.
The Spark: A Protest and a Detention
The controversy stems from the actor's participation in a recent protest in Mumbai. According to reports, Imran Khan, who holds an American passport, was detained by the Mumbai Police last week while taking part in the demonstration. The actor took the detention in stride, sharing a photograph of himself inside a police van on social media with the lighthearted caption, “Apparently I’m going for a drive.”
Speaking to the press, Khan maintained that he visited the protest site as a citizen of Mumbai and was not there to push any specific demands. He raised questions regarding the suppression of public voices and the restrictions placed on the freedom of movement.
Legal Grounds for the Notice
The FRRO has initiated action against the actor under Sections 7 and 29 of the Immigration Act. The core of the allegation is that Khan participated in a protest despite not being an Indian citizen, which is viewed as a violation of his status.
While the actor's legal team has confirmed that they will challenge the notice in the High Court, the specific grounds for the appeal are expected to be filed next week.
Political Backlash and Allegations of Extremism
The legal battle has been intensified by demands from political figures. BJP leader Kirit Somaiya has called for the immediate arrest and deportation of the actor, claiming that Khan misused his Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status and violated visa conditions.
Somaiya has submitted evidence to the police, including recordings of speeches delivered by the actor during the demonstration and previous remarks. The BJP leader accused the actor of displaying "political extremism," stating that the citizens of India cannot tolerate such behavior from a foreign national.
“He is an American citizen holding an OCI card, yet he has attempted to misuse his status. Today, we submitted all proofs and evidence to the police regarding his conduct,” Somaiya told the media.
As the October 28 deadline approaches, all eyes are now on the Bombay High Court to see if the actor will be granted relief to stay in the country.