Imran Khan’s previous desire to obtain an Indian passport has resurfaced online after the actor was asked to leave India for participating in a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The 43-year-old star, who is an American citizen holding an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, has reflected on his citizenship status on multiple occasions.
In 2011, the You go… or you don't go actor revealed that he had been trying hard to obtain an Indian passport.
Speaking to India Today, he said, “I am trying to get an Indian passport. The official proceedings are one. I hope I acquire it soon as some big things are on their way. I feel it is my duty to serve my country. I cannot vote here because I am not a citizen but I do take part in elections by creating awareness about the importance of voting, because I feel I am a part of this country.”
On Saturday, October 10, Imran expressed his frustration after being detained during a protest at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan, where demonstrators demanded Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation.
Addressing the media, he said, “I don’t have demands. I am here as a citizen, as a person who lives in this city. I am here to see why freedom of movement is being restricted. Why are people’s voices being suppressed? That is why I am here.”
It is pertinent to mention that, following the latest incident, the Gori Tere Pyaar Mein star was issued a notice by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), asking him to leave India by October 28 for allegedly violating the rules applicable to foreign nationals.