Bombay High Court Grants Interim Relief to Actor Imran Khan, Stays ‘Leave India’ Notice

A division bench hearing Khan’s petition challenging the notice directed that no coercive steps be taken against him in the interim. The notice had required the actor to leave India by October 28.

During the proceedings, the Additional Solicitor General, representing the Centre, sought additional time and requested that the matter be adjourned until the following week. The law officer also assured the court that no punitive action would be initiated against Khan in the meantime.

After considering the submissions, the court scheduled the next hearing for November 2 at 3 p.m. and kept the disputed notice in abeyance until then.

Dispute over participation in political protest

The case stems from a notice issued to Khan following his participation in a protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Authorities alleged that the actor had violated provisions of the Foreigners Act by participating in a political demonstration despite not being an Indian citizen.

Khan, who holds Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status, challenged the notice before the High Court, arguing that the action was arbitrary and violated the principles of natural justice.

In his petition, the actor contended that he had been given only 14 days to leave the country without a prior inquiry, a show-cause notice or an opportunity to present his case.

Actor challenges allegations against him

Khan’s plea also stated that the demonstration took place at a location that was not designated as a restricted area. He maintained that he had neither breached barricades nor violated any law during the protest.

According to his petition, he was preparing to leave the venue when he was suddenly surrounded by members of the media and subsequently detained.

The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), in its order, alleged that Khan had breached the Foreigners Act by participating in the demonstration despite holding OCI status rather than Indian citizenship.

The High Court’s interim order temporarily prevents the implementation of the notice while the legal challenge remains pending. The matter is scheduled to be taken up again on November 2.