Imran Khan faces India departure notice after protest participation

October 10 protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar

The protest, organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Demonstrators cited alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls as the motivation for the event.

Imran Khan and his girlfriend, Lekha Washington, were detained by Mumbai Police during the demonstration. Khan was also joined by his cousin Zayn Marie Khan at the event.

While in custody, the actor shared a photograph on social media from inside a police van with the caption, “Apparently I’m going for a drive”. During the protest, Khan stated, “I don’t have demands. I’m here as a citizen, as a person who lives in this city. I’m here to see why freedom of movement is being restricted, why people’s voices are being suppressed”. Khan and his companions were released later that same evening.

Kiran Rao defends Imran Khan's forty-year history in India

Filmmaker Kiran Rao has publicly defended Imran Khan, who resides in the Khar area of Mumbai. Addressing the notice on social media, Rao wrote, “Wah, now it’s Mumbai police?”.

She further highlighted the actor’s long-standing connection to the country, noting, “43 years old. 40 of those years in India. Studied here, worked here, succeeded here, failed here, loved here and fought here”. These comments were posted on Instagram as the industry reacted to the government order.

Legal team prepares challenge in Bombay High Court

Actor Imran Khan intends to challenge the departure notice in the Bombay High Court. His legal team, led by advocate Zulfikar Memon of MZM Legal, is preparing a formal petition. They expect to file the document by Friday or Monday.

The petition characterises the police order to leave by 28 October as “drastic”. Once filed, the legal team expects the matter to be heard by a division bench comprising Chief Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna. The challenge stems from the actor’s participation in a protest against the Chief Election Commissioner.

Arguments regarding Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025

The legal team representing Imran Khan argues that no provision of law specifically prohibits Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders from participating in protests. Conversely, government authorities have invoked statutory provisions under Section 7 (2)(C) and Section 29 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.

Officials allege that Khan violated these provisions by taking part in a political demonstration despite his status as a foreign national. Section 7 (2)(C) grants the government authority to issue directions prohibiting, regulating, or restricting the presence of any foreigner. Section 29 allows the government to order the removal of a foreign national who contravenes the rules of the Act or is subject to an adverse security report.

Mixed public reactions from Bollywood figures

Bollywood figures have expressed mixed reactions to the notice issued to Imran Khan. Actor Saba Azad stated, “What? This is bullst” in response to the news.

Zayn Marie shared a post on Instagram regarding the order. Other individuals, including Gajendra Chauhan, Raza Murad, and Ashoke Pandit, have reportedly expressed support for the government’s decision.