Indian authorities have ordered actor Imran Khan the nephew of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan to leave the country by October 28 following his participation in a political demonstration in Mumbai.
Imran is an American citizen holds an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. While OCI status grants lifetime entry and residence rights in India and the cardholders are legally barred from voting or contesting elections.
The Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO) issued the "Leave India" notice after Khan participated in an October 10 protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at August Kranti Maidan. Demonstrators demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged electoral roll manipulation a charge denied by the poll panel.
Police issued the directive following a complaint by ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kirit Somaiya who accused the actor of violating immigration laws and involvement in a conspiracy. Authorities argued foreign nationals cannot join political demonstrations on Indian soil.
Imran Khan was briefly detained during the rally and defended his presence with stating that he attended as a city resident concerned about restricted movement and suppressed public expression rather than as a political representative.
Imran Khan’s legal counsel described the departure order as "drastic" and confirmed plans to challenge the notice in the Bombay High Court also arguing no existing legal provision explicitly bars OCI holders from attending peaceful public assemblies.
