Protest Proves Costly for Imran Khan: Actor Told to Quit India
The American citizen and OCI cardholder was detained during an October 10 protest; the reported notice cites provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.
- Imran Khan reportedly ordered to leave India by October 28
- Actor was detained during October 10 Mumbai protest
- BJP leader Kirit Somaiya sought action against Khan
- OCI cardholders remain foreign nationals under Indian law
GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 15th Oct: Actor Imran Khan, an American citizen who holds an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, has reportedly been issued a notice directing him to leave India following his participation in a protest in Mumbai on October 10.
According to the details provided, Mumbai Police issued the notice under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. The reported action follows Khan’s participation in a gathering at August Kranti Maidan organised to protest against Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Khan attended the protest alongside his partner, actor Lekha Washington, and his cousin, Zayne Marie Khan. All three were detained by police and released later. During the episode, Khan shared a photograph of himself inside a police van on social media with the caption, “Apparently I’m going for a drive.”
BJP leader Kirit Somaiya had also sought action against the actor over his participation in the protest.
What the Law Provides
Section 7 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, empowers the Central Government to issue orders and directions regulating or restricting the entry, departure, presence or movement of foreign nationals in India.
Section 29 deals with the removal of foreigners. It provides for the Central Government to direct a foreign national’s removal from India in cases involving violations of the Act or rules and orders made under it, or an adverse security report.
The precise grounds cited in Khan’s reported notice, and any response from the actor or authorities, were not included in the details available for this report.
What Is an OCI Card?
Introduced in 2005, the Overseas Citizenship of India scheme is intended for eligible people of Indian origin who hold foreign citizenship. An OCI card does not confer Indian citizenship; cardholders remain foreign nationals.
OCI status provides specified privileges, including a lifelong, multiple-entry visa to India, subject to applicable rules. It also offers certain benefits relating to education, property and professional activities, within the limits prescribed by law.
Khan’s reported case has drawn attention to the distinction between OCI privileges and Indian citizenship, particularly in relation to the legal provisions governing the stay and removal of foreign nationals.
