Abhinay Deo, who directed Imran Khan in “Delhi Belly,” has reacted to the notice served on the actor. Speaking to ANI, he said people should be given the freedom to voice their opinions and make their own decisions, and that those choices should be respected. He said the one thing he could say with confidence was what Imran is like as a person: a wonderful human being who is extremely passionate and sensitive.
Deo added that he did not want to say more than that. His view of Imran, he said, is limited to his own experience, and going beyond it would be an intrusion into the actor’s personal life and privacy.
The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Mumbai has directed Imran to leave India on or before October 28. Reports say he is a US citizen and holds an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. The notice follows his participation in a protest at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan on October 10, where demonstrators demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Reports say he was detained that day, and that a complaint by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya led to the notice. They say the notice cites provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.
The Legal Response
Imran’s lawyer, Zulfiquar Memon, has confirmed the actor plans to challenge the notice in the Bombay High Court. Reports say the petition is expected to be filed soon. His legal team argues that no provision of law explicitly bars OCI cardholders from taking part in protests. That is the team’s argument, and the court has yet to rule on it.
Reactions
The notice has drawn mixed reactions. Kiran Rao and Kubbra Sait are among those who reportedly backed Imran, while others have criticised him.
Why It Matters
The case raises a wider question about how far foreign nationals, including OCI cardholders of Indian origin, can take part in political demonstrations. Deo’s comments are a personal character reference and do not address the legal issues. The High Court’s response will be the key next step.