Mumbai: With the Bombay High Court temporarily suspending an order directing him to leave India, Bollywood actor Imran Khan has raised fresh objections to a separate notice threatening his Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status. The actor has requested immigration authorities to disclose the evidence supporting the proposed cancellation.
In his response dated October 22, Khan questioned the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) over the grounds cited in its October 17 show-cause notice. He maintained that the allegations lacked clarity and contained inconsistencies, making it difficult for him to prepare a proper defence.
The actor also challenged the reliance on a Mumbai Police report, alleging that crucial information had not been shared with him. He argued that the authorities should provide all relevant documents and supporting evidence before proceeding with any decision affecting his OCI registration.
Protest in Mumbai Triggers Immigration Action
The controversy began after Khan was detained near August Kranti Maidan on October 10 during a demonstration demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Following the incident, police registered a case naming Khan among other individuals. The FRRO subsequently issued a notice on October 14 directing the US citizen and OCI cardholder to leave India by October 28.
Khan challenged the order before the Bombay High Court, arguing that the action was unjustified and that he had not been given a fair opportunity to explain his position. He has also disputed allegations that he participated in the demonstration.
Bombay High Court Grants Temporary Relief
On October 27, the Bombay High Court directed that the order requiring Khan to leave India remain suspended until November 2. The court granted the interim relief after the Centre sought additional time and assured that no coercive action would be taken against the actor in the meantime.
However, the separate proceedings concerning the possible cancellation of his OCI registration remain unresolved.
Khan has sought access to the records relied upon by the FRRO, maintaining that a fair opportunity to respond requires disclosure of the evidence against him.
The High Court is scheduled to resume hearing his challenge to the departure order on November 2.
