Bollywood actor Imran Khan, nephew of superstar Aamir Khan, has been directed to leave India by October 28 following his participation in a protest in Mumbai demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, according to Indian media reports.

Reports by India Today and Reuters state that the actor, who holds US citizenship and an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, has received a “Leave India Notice” over alleged violations of immigration laws. Khan is preparing to challenge the notice through legal channels.

The Protest That Led to the Notice

The protest took place at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan on October 10. Demonstrators called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and raised concerns about electoral processes and voter-list revisions.

Khan attended the demonstration alongside his partner, actress Lekha Washington, and his cousin Zayn Marie Khan. Police briefly detained the actor and other participants during the protest.

After the incident, Khan shared a photograph of himself inside a police van on social media. He accompanied the picture with a light-hearted caption suggesting that he was going on a little trip.

Why Was He Asked to Leave India?

According to media reports, BJP leader and former Member of Parliament Kirit Somaiya lodged a complaint with Mumbai Police over Khan’s participation in the demonstration despite his US citizenship.

Following the complaint, the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) issued the notice directing the actor to leave India by October 28. Authorities have alleged that his participation in the protest violated provisions governing foreign nationals and immigration.

The case has also raised questions about the rights of OCI cardholders and the legal restrictions, if any, applicable to their participation in political demonstrations. Khan’s lawyer, Zulfiquar Memon, has said that preparations are underway to challenge the notice and related action in court.

Imran Khan’s US Citizenship

Khan rose to fame with the Bollywood film Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na. He is a US citizen and has previously spoken publicly about his nationality.

In a 2011 interview, the actor said he was trying to obtain an Indian passport. He also explained that, even without Indian citizenship, he wanted to remain involved in raising awareness about social issues because he considered himself part of the country.

However, it remains unclear whether he subsequently obtained Indian citizenship. Recent reports continue to identify him as a US citizen and OCI cardholder.

Actor’s Previous Public Protests

Khan has also spoken out on other social and education-related issues. Reports noted that he criticised alleged irregularities surrounding India’s NEET examination and police action against students earlier this year.

With the October 28 deadline approaching, the focus is now on the actor’s legal challenge and the authorities’ response. The case could bring further attention to the legal position of OCI cardholders participating in political demonstrations in India.