Mumbai Police Issues ‘Leave India’ Notice to Actor Imran Khan
Actor Imran Khan, nephew of Aamir Khan, has been ordered to leave India by October 28 following his participation in a Mumbai protest.
In a dramatic turn of events, the Mumbai Police has issued a formal notice to Bollywood actor Imran Khan, directing him to leave India by October 28. The actor, who is the nephew of superstar Aamir Khan, is facing legal action following his involvement in a recent protest held at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan.
The Protest and Legal Action
The controversy erupted after Imran Khan participated in a demonstration demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Authorities have initiated proceedings against him under Sections 29 and 7 of the Immigration Act. The core of the legal issue rests on allegations that Khan, who holds an American passport, participated in a political protest despite not being an Indian citizen.
The actor was detained by the Mumbai Police on Saturday during the demonstration. Following his detention, Khan shared a photograph on social media showing himself seated inside a police van, humorously captioning the post, “Apparently I’m going for a drive.”
Imran Khan Breaks Silence
Speaking to members of the media, Imran Khan defended his presence at the protest, claiming he was acting as a resident of the city rather than a political agitator. He denied having any specific list of demands, instead focusing on the civil liberties of the people.
“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,” the actor stated, questioning the current restrictions on movement and expression.
Political Pressure and Allegations of Misuse
The move to deport the actor follows intense pressure from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kirit Somaiya. Somaiya had previously called for the immediate arrest and deportation of Imran Khan, alleging that the actor had violated the terms of his Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status and visa conditions.
Somaiya accused Khan of engaging in "political extremism" and participating in what he described as an illegal political agitation. The BJP leader claimed to have submitted evidence to the police, including recordings of the speeches delivered by Khan during the protest and his previous public remarks.
“The citizens of India cannot tolerate the political extremism that Imran Khan has been displaying during his recent stay in the country. He is an American citizen holding an OCI card, yet he has attempted to misuse his status,” Somaiya told reporters, emphasizing that the evidence provided would substantiate the allegations of misconduct.