"An American can speak for BJP, but...": Activist Backs Imran Khan
Actor Imran Khan, nephew of Aamir Khan, faces a Leave India notice after participating in a Mumbai protest. Activist Abhijit Dipke defends him.
Actor Imran Khan, the nephew of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, is facing a legal storm after the Mumbai Police issued a 'Leave India' notice. The directive, which requires him to depart the country by October 28, follows his involvement in a recent protest held at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan.
The Protest and Police Action
The controversy erupted after Khan participated in a demonstration demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Following his involvement, the Mumbai Police detained the actor on Saturday. Khan later shared a photo from inside a police van with the cheeky caption, “Apparently I’m going for a drive.”
Authorities have initiated action against him under Sections 29 and 7 of the Immigration Act. The core of the legal issue rests on allegations that Khan participated in a political protest despite not holding Indian citizenship. Reports suggest that while he holds an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card, he is actually an American passport holder.
Imran Khan Breaks Silence
Speaking to the media, the actor defended his presence at the Maidan, stating he was not there to push specific political demands but to observe the current atmosphere in the city.
“I don't have demands. I am here as a citizen, as a person who lives in this city. I am here to see why freedom of movement is being restricted. Why are people's voices being suppressed? That is why I am here,” Khan said.
Political Backlash and Allegations
The actor's actions have drawn sharp criticism from political circles. Kirit Somaiya, a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has demanded the immediate arrest and deportation of Imran Khan. Somaiya alleges that the actor has flagrantly misused his OCI status to engage in illegal political agitation.
Somaiya claimed to have submitted evidence to the police, including recordings of Khan's speeches during the protest and his previous remarks, which he characterized as "political extremism."
Activist Abhijit Dipke Draws Comparisons
In the wake of the notice, CJP activist Abhijit Dipke has come to the actor's defense, highlighting what he perceives as a double standard regarding political speech. Dipke drew a direct comparison between the actor and American singer Mary Millben to question the targeting of Khan.
In a post on X, Dipke remarked: "Mary Millben, an American, can speak in favour of the BJP. But Imran, an OCI cardholder, can’t say anything against the BJP."
The situation remains tense as the October 28 deadline approaches, leaving the future of the actor's stay in India uncertain amidst the clash between immigration laws and freedom of expression.