Actor Imran Khan, known for films such as Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na and I Hate Luv Storys, is facing an immigration dispute after a protest in Mumbai demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. His lawyers have denied that the actor participated in the demonstration, maintaining that he was merely passing through the Nana Chowk area when the road was barricaded.
According to reports published on October 16, 2026, the Mumbai police demanded that the actor leave, citing the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. Section 7, which gives the central government authority to issue orders, directions, or instructions to regulate, restrict, or prohibit the entry, departure, presence, or movement of foreigners in India. the actor’s legal team plans to challenge the notice directing him to leave India by October 28. His lawyers have also sought CCTV footage to establish his movements and determine whether he actively participated in the protest. The defence’s account remains a claim that must be assessed against the available evidence. Times of India
Why did the controversy begin?
The incident dates back to October 10, when protesters gathered at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan to demand the resignation of Gyanesh Kumar. The demonstration was associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a group protesting against the Election Commission’s handling of electoral rolls.
Imran Khan was detained alongside his partner, actor Lekha Washington, and his cousin Zayn Marie Khan. He was subsequently released.
During the demonstration, Khan told reporters that he was present as a Mumbai resident and wanted to understand why people’s movement was being restricted and their voices suppressed. He also said he was not representing an organisation.
The controversy escalated after former BJP MP Kirit Somaiya sought action against the actor. Somaiya questioned whether Khan, as a US citizen holding an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, could participate in a political demonstration in India. He urged authorities to detain and deport the actor, alleging violations of immigration rules.
The complaint was forwarded to the FRRO, which issued the notice asking Khan to leave India by October 28. The notice invokes provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. Hindustan Times
What is an OCI card, and why is it important?
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status was introduced in 2005 for eligible foreign nationals of Indian origin. Despite its name, an OCI card does not provide Indian citizenship or dual citizenship. Holders remain citizens of the countries whose passports they possess.
The card provides significant privileges, including a lifelong, multiple-entry visa to India, exemption from routine registration with the FRRO and specified benefits relating to education, property and professional activities.
However, OCI cardholders cannot vote in Indian elections, contest parliamentary or state elections, or hold certain constitutional positions. They also remain subject to Indian immigration laws and specific restrictions on certain activities.
The distinction is important because an OCI card is not equivalent to Indian citizenship. At the same time, whether a particular protest amounts to a breach of immigration rules depends on the applicable law, the facts and the grounds cited by authorities.
Other celebrities who hold OCI status
Imran Khan is not the only foreign passport holder working in the Indian entertainment industry under OCI status. Actors Alia Bhatt, who holds British citizenship, and Katrina Kaif, who is a British citizen, are among the prominent names associated with OCI status. Canadian citizen Nora Fatehi is another widely known example.
Legal challenge and wider debate
The case has prompted questions about the limits of government powers over foreign nationals. Legal experts have questioned whether participation in a protest, by itself, establishes a sufficient basis for removal from India.
The law gives authorities powers to regulate foreign nationals’ presence in the country. However, the precise grounds for an exit notice and compliance with applicable legal procedures remain important.
Imran Khan’s lawyers are preparing to challenge the notice in the Bombay High Court. The outcome could clarify important questions about immigration powers, OCI status and procedural safeguards. Until the legal challenge is heard, the actor’s alleged participation and the validity of the notice should not be treated as finally adjudicated facts.
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