Actor Imran Khan, nephew of Bollywood star Aamir Khan, has reportedly been directed to leave India by October 28 following his participation in a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in Mumbai on October 10.
Imran was among the demonstrators who assembled at August Kranti Maidan, demanding the CEC’s resignation. His partner, actor Lekha Washington, and cousin Zayn Marie Khan also took part in the demonstration. Mumbai Police reportedly detained all three during the protest.
According to media reports, the action against Imran has been initiated under relevant provisions of the Immigration Act, allegedly because he participated in the demonstration despite not being an Indian citizen. The actor is reportedly a US citizen.
The development has also brought renewed attention to Imran’s citizenship status. In a 2011 interview cited by India Today, he spoke about his efforts to obtain an Indian passport and his inability to vote in India at the time.
“I am trying to get an Indian passport. The official proceedings are on. I hope I acquire it soon as some big things are on their way. I feel it is my duty to serve my country,” he was quoted as saying.
Speaking about his involvement in voter-awareness initiatives, Imran had acknowledged that he could not vote because he was not an Indian citizen. However, he said he participated in awareness campaigns because he considered himself part of the country.
It remains unclear whether Imran subsequently acquired Indian citizenship. The reported directive to leave India, the specific legal provisions invoked and the circumstances surrounding the action have not been independently verified.
The reported development has sparked interest because of the actor’s family connections and his participation in the Mumbai demonstration. Further clarification from the relevant authorities would be necessary to establish the details and legal basis of the reported action.