Actor Imran Khan has tendered an unconditional apology for participating in the Mumbai protests against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, following a strong reprimand from the Bombay High Court. The court had questioned his participation, observing that as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder, he did not have the right to criticise the country.
During the hearing, the Bombay High Court pointed out that Imran Khan was not directly affected by the SIR exercise and could not be treated on the same footing as Indian citizens. The court asked the actor to either submit an unconditional apology or express regret on oath. It also sought an undertaking from him assuring that he would not participate in similar protests in the future.
Following the court’s observations, Imran Khan submitted the required undertaking and tendered an unconditional apology. Subsequently, the High Court put the Leave India Notice (LIN) issued against him on hold until December 7.
The actor had approached the Bombay High Court challenging the notice issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), which directed him to leave India by October 28 over his participation in the protests. The court had initially kept the notice in abeyance until November 2, a relief that has now been extended to December 7.
While hearing his plea, the High Court also questioned the FRRO’s decision to issue the notice. The court orally observed that an individual who had been residing in India for over four decades without any adverse antecedents should at least have been given an opportunity to present his side before such a notice was issued.
Imran Khan also sought the court’s intervention to revoke the LIN and requested interim protection from coercive action, including deportation.
Also Read: Imran Khan Gets Relief As Bombay High Court Extends Protection Until November 2
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