Cinema VinesThe Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Mumbai has issued a second show‑cause notice to actor Imran Khan, initiating proceedings to cancel his Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) registration. The notice demands that Khan explain within 15 days why his OCI status should not be revoked, following an earlier exit directive that ordered him to leave India by October 28.
Khan’s legal battle began after he participated in a peaceful protest at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan, where demonstrators opposed Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The FRRO maintains that foreign nationals are prohibited from taking part in political rallies, agitations or demonstrations in India, citing violations of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, and related rules. The actor, a 43‑year‑old US national, has challenged the exit order in the Bombay High Court, arguing that it was issued without prior inquiry, formal show‑cause proceedings, or a fair hearing.
In his writ petition, Khan’s legal team highlighted his long‑standing ties to India, noting that he has lived in the country for years and holds an OCI card. They contend that the existing OCI guidelines do not explicitly forbid peaceful assembly in a personal capacity, and they have sought an interim stay on the departure order. The FRRO’s new notice will consider Khan’s response before deciding on the next steps regarding his OCI privileges.
The case has drawn attention from the film industry and political circles. Filmmaker Kiran Rao, who has worked closely with Khan’s family, has questioned the measures taken against the actor, pointing to his deep connection to India. The outcome of Khan’s legal challenge and the FRRO’s decision will determine whether he retains his OCI status or is forced to leave the country.
