Bombay High Court Directs Actor Imran Khan to Tender Unconditional Apology

 

 

The Bombay High Court has directed Bollywood actor Imran Khan to tender an unconditional apology for his participation in a political protest demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner. The court also requested an affidavit stating that he would not participate in such protests in India in the future. This significant observation was made while the court was considering a petition filed by the actor against a notice issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) asking him to leave India. The court clarified that Imran Khan, who holds American citizenship and an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card, does not have the right to reside in the country and simultaneously protest against the state’s administrative machinery.

The bench remarked that if he wishes to protest, he should go to the United States to do so; however, it suggested that if his involvement in the protest was inadvertent, he should submit an unconditional apology. The actor had approached the court challenging a notice that required him to leave the country by October 28. The court suggested that the government should adopt a lenient approach, taking into account the professional opportunities and recognition the actor has gained in India over the years. Granting time to respond to the FRRO notice, the court extended its previous interim order staying any further action. Further proceedings in the case will take place only after a formal response and an unconditional apology have been submitted.