Bombay High Court Extends Stay on ‘Leave India’ Notice to Actor Imran Khan Till 7 December After He Apologises
The US-citizen actor, who holds an OCI card, was told to leave India after joining an October protest against the Chief Election Commissioner. The court has sought an unconditional apology and a written undertaking.
The Bombay High Court has extended its stay on a “Leave India” notice issued to actor Imran Khan, allowing him to remain in the country until 7 December, after he apologised for taking part in a political protest in Mumbai.
Khan, 43, is a US citizen of Indian origin and holds an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) had issued the notice under Sections 7 and 29 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, a few days after he joined a demonstration at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan on 10 October demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He had been asked to leave by 28 October.
What the court said
The OCI card does not give its holder the full rights of an Indian citizen, and taking part in political protests can be treated as a breach of visa or OCI conditions. The court said a mere undertaking would not be enough and directed Khan to file an unconditional apology along with a written assurance that he will not join similar protests. His lawyer told the court the apology would be submitted immediately and that Khan would not encourage others to protest.
The stay will continue until the FRRO decides the matter after giving Khan a chance to respond. The case will be heard next on 7 December.
Khan, known for films such as Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na and Delhi Belly, has been trending in India since the hearing.
Featured image: Bombay High Court building in Mumbai (file photo). Photo: A.Savin, FAL (source).
Sources
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