'Counter to National Interest': BJP Slams Actor Imran Khan After 'Leave India' Notice
BJP spokesperson Shaik Baji and leader Kirit Somaiya demand action against actor Imran Khan for participating in protests despite US citizenship.
The political temperature has risen following the issuance of a 'Leave India Notice' to Bollywood actor Imran Khan. The actor, who is the nephew of superstar Aamir Khan, has found himself in the crosshairs of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after participating in anti-government protests, leading to accusations that his actions run counter to the interests of the nation.
BJP Accuses Actor of Following a 'Hidden Agenda'
Shaik Baji, the spokesperson for the BJP in Andhra Pradesh, expressed strong disapproval of the actor's recent activities. Speaking to ANI, Baji highlighted that Imran Khan, who holds American citizenship, participated in an anti-government procession in Delhi. He stated that the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), under the Union Home Ministry, has summoned the actor and effectively directed him to depart from India.
Baji further remarked that while the actor has appeared in a few films, his current involvement in political unrest aligns with an agenda that is detrimental to the country. He urged the public to remain vigilant and keep a close watch on such developments to ensure the protection of the nation and its families.
Allegations of 'Political Extremism' and OCI Misuse
The controversy intensified as BJP leader Kirit Somaiya demanded the immediate arrest and deportation of the actor. Somaiya alleged that Imran Khan misused his Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status by engaging in what he described as "illegal political agitation."
Accusing the actor of displaying "political extremism," Somaiya claimed to have submitted evidence to the police, including recordings of speeches delivered by Khan during the demonstrations and previous comments. He argued that Indian citizens cannot tolerate such behavior from a foreign national holding an OCI card.
Legal Action and Police Detention
The situation escalated when Mumbai Police issued a formal 'Leave India' notice to the actor, directing him to leave the country by October 28. Reports indicate that action has been initiated against him under Sections 7 and 29 of the Immigration Act, based on the premise that he participated in protests despite not being an Indian citizen.
The actor was detained by the Mumbai Police on Saturday during a protest. In a defiant move, Khan shared a photograph of himself inside a police van on social media with the caption, “Apparently I’m going for a drive.”
The Actor's Defense
When speaking to the media, Imran Khan defended his presence at the protest, stating that he had come to the location as a "citizen of Mumbai" and was not there with any specific demands. He questioned the current restrictions on freedom of movement and the perceived suppression of the people's voices.
Battle Moves to the High Court
Imran Khan is not planning to leave without a legal fight. His legal team has informed ANI that the actor intends to move the Bombay High Court to challenge the 'Leave India' notice. An appeal is expected to be filed next week, although the specific grounds for the legal challenge are yet to be disclosed.