Actor Imran Khan’s troubles seem to be increasing. His petition challenging the ‘Leave India Notice’ issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) was heard in the Bombay High Court on Monday, November 2, 2026. During this, the court raised tough questions regarding Imran Khan’s Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card and his role in the alleged protests. A bench of Chief Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Advaita M. Sethna said that OCI cardholders do not have the right to protest in India. The court also questioned why Imran Khan does not take Indian citizenship despite being born, working and living in India.
Court’s strict comment on OCI cardholder’s rights
During the hearing, the Chief Justice, citing the rules of OCI card, made it clear that under this status a person living in India does not get the right to participate in the protest. The court remarked that if such a case had happened in another country, the person concerned could have been sent back on the next flight. This comment came during the hearing on Imran Khan’s petition, in which he has challenged the FRRO notice. The court also asked Imran Khan that when he was born in India, he lives, works and earns here, then why does he not take Indian citizenship. Referring to his large number of followers on social media, the bench said that his responsibility in the case should be viewed seriously.
Imran Khan said – never called for investigation
During the hearing, the lawyer appearing for Imran Khan told the court that he was never called for investigation. It was also said on his part that he has an American passport and he has been looking for a job since 2006. The defense tried to assure the court that Imran Khan would not participate in any protests in future. His lawyer said that he is ready to give an undertaking before the court in this regard. His stand was that Imran Khan neither participated in the related demonstration nor does he intend to participate in any such demonstration in the future. However, instead of expressing satisfaction on this argument, the court emphasized the need to prove the facts related to the case.
Court said- It has to be proved that you were not involved in the protest
During the hearing, the court asked Imran Khan’s side how they would prove that he was not a part of the demonstration. The bench said that mere statement does not suffice, but the related claims have to be clarified. The court also indicated that if Imran Khan apologizes, it should be without any conditions. On the other hand, the government side claimed in the court that Imran Khan had participated in the protest and he himself had posted related to it on social media. The government questioned his alleged statement that he had not participated in the demonstration. According to the government side, a complaint has been filed in the matter and being OCI cardholders, their rights are different from those of Indian citizens.
Emphasis on unconditional apology and adherence to OCI rules
The court made strong remarks during the hearing, stressing on the need for Imran Khan to follow OCI rules. The bench said that it is important to understand the rights available to them as OCI cardholders and the restrictions applicable to them. The court also said that any pardon should be unconditional and he would have to prove that he was not involved in the protests. Imran Khan once again offered an undertaking. However, the court’s observations made it clear that it is looking at the matter seriously and is not in favor of reaching conclusions on the basis of mere assurances. This case is related to the petition challenging the ‘Leave India Notice’ of FRRO. During the hearing, the court raised questions on the rights of OCI cardholders, Imran Khan’s role in the alleged protest and his statements. The position on these aspects is expected to become clear during the further legal process in the case.
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