When actor Imran Khan spoke about US citizenship and getting an Indian passport

Following the Mumbai Police’s issuing of a ‘Leave India Notice’ to actor Imran Khan over his participation in anti-CEC (Chief Election Commissioner) protests at Mumbai's August Kranti Maidan, the actor’s foreign status has once again placed him under national scrutiny. While the authorities cited violations of visa conditions and the Immigration Act due to his status as a United States citizen, the development recalls an earlier moment during the promotion of Mere Brother Ki Dulhan when the actor publicly addressed holding an American passport and spoke about his efforts to acquire an Indian passport.During the promotional campaign for his 2011 romantic comedy Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, co-starring Katrina Kaif and Ali Zafar, Imran Khan opened up about his legal background. Born in Madison, Wisconsin, to Anil Pal and Nuha Khan, the actor spent his formative years in Mumbai after his parents divorced and adopted his mother's surname. Despite establishing himself as a prominent face in Hindi cinema through films such as Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na, I Hate Luv Storys, and Delhi Belly, official records indicated that he was operating in the country on a working visa.His foreign status previously made headlines when he attempted to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the legal drinking age in Maharashtra, encountering procedural hurdles owing to his non-citizen status. Married at the time to Avantika Malik, an Indian citizen, Imran had expressed a strong desire to permanently settle in India and acquire formal citizenship. Speaking to the media, the actor had said, "I am trying to get an Indian passport. The official proceedings are on. I hope I acquire it soon as some big things are on their way." He further emphasised his sense of civic engagement, adding, "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."The actor now finds himself embroiled in a political and legal controversy after being detained at a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Mumbai Police issued a notice under Section 7 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, ordering him to leave the country by October 28.The move triggered widespread reactions across the film fraternity; while filmmaker Ashoke Pandit backed the government's stance — highlighting that non-citizens cannot participate in political demonstrations — others have voiced concern. In response, Imran Khan’s legal team is preparing to challenge the order in the Bombay High Court, arguing that the notice is overly drastic and seeking urgent judicial intervention.- Ends