Patna: Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan has strongly backed the ‘Leave India’ notice issued to Bollywood actor Imran Khan, stating that the involvement of foreign nationals in the internal democratic affairs of the country is completely unacceptable.
The controversy erupted after Khan, who holds an American passport and an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, recently participated in a political protest in Mumbai demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Following his participation, the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) reportedly served the actor a notice under the Immigration Act, directing him to leave the country by October 28. Khan has since approached the Bombay High Court to challenge the deportation order.
Speaking to the media in Patna on Sunday, Paswan made it clear that while he respects the democratic right to dissent, that right is strictly reserved for Indian citizens. “There is no objection to Indian citizens playing a role in matters concerning India while living within the country. I have always supported peaceful protests. However, I do not consider it justifiable for someone who is not an Indian citizen to intervene in India’s internal affairs or play a role in such matters,” the Union Minister asserted.
Paswan further highlighted the potential security implications, hinting at the broader political narrative surrounding recent demonstrations. “For someone who is not an Indian citizen to involve themselves in India’s internal affairs—especially when there are growing concerns that foreign forces may be involved in orchestrating these events—is unacceptable,” he added.
While acknowledging Khan’s contributions to the Hindi film industry, Paswan emphasized that professional success does not equate to citizenship rights. “I like the actor and his work. But he should have realised that he did not become an Indian citizen just by virtue of having worked in the country for so long. Imran Khan should have stayed away from the protest,” Paswan remarked, cautioning foreign nationals to exercise restraint before joining political demonstrations in India.
The incident has sparked a wider debate regarding the privileges and legal limitations of OCI cardholders participating in domestic political activities, with all eyes now on the Bombay High Court’s upcoming hearing on Khan’s plea.