Mumbai, October 15: Bollywood actor Imran Khan, known for films such as Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na and Delhi Belly, has reportedly been directed to leave India by October 28 following his participation in a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in Mumbai.

According to media reports, Khan attended a demonstration at August Kranti Maidan on October 10, where protesters demanded the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner. The incident subsequently drew attention after a complaint was filed by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, raising questions about the actor’s participation in political demonstrations.

Khan is reportedly a US citizen holding an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. The complaint alleged that his participation in the protest could violate rules applicable to foreign nationals and OCI cardholders. Following the complaint, authorities reportedly issued a notice directing him to leave the country by the specified deadline.

The development has triggered a legal dispute, with Khan reportedly approaching the Bombay High Court to challenge the action taken against him. The court proceedings are expected to be significant in determining the legal validity of the notice and the grounds on which it was issued.

OCI cardholders enjoy certain privileges in India, including long-term visa-free travel and residence rights, but they do not have the same political rights as Indian citizens. The legal framework governing OCI status also places restrictions on certain activities. Whether the actor’s participation in the demonstration violated any applicable provision will depend on the relevant rules and the facts considered by the authorities and the court.

The matter has attracted public attention because it involves the intersection of political expression, immigration regulations and the rights of OCI cardholders. However, the issuance of a notice does not by itself establish that a legal violation has occurred.

As the matter moves through the judicial process, the Bombay High Court’s consideration of Khan’s challenge could clarify the legal issues surrounding the action. Further developments will depend on the court proceedings and any subsequent decisions by the authorities.

Note: The case remains subject to legal proceedings. The allegations and the reported reasons for the notice should not be treated as established findings unless confirmed by official records or a court ruling.

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