Imran Khan was just passing through, didn’t take part in Mumbai protests: Lawyers
Lawyers for actor Imran Khan are challenging an order for him to leave India, arguing he did not participate in a protest at August Kranti Maidan. The defense team plans to use CCTV footage to prove he was merely passing through the area when detained.
Why it matters
The case highlights the legal complexities regarding the rights of foreign nationals to participate in local political demonstrations.
MUMBAI: Lawyers of actor Imran Khan, who has been asked by FRRO to leave the country by Oct 28, contend that he did not participate in the protest at August Kranti Maidan last Saturday.Speaking to the media moments before being detained at the protest site, the actor had said, "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 repressed."The controversy erupted after BJP ex-MP Kirit Somaiya sought action against Khan, saying the actor had no rights to protest challenging govt policy as he was a foreigner.The defence also intends to question the allegation that Khan participated in the protest in the manner claimed by the complainant. "Let police take out the CCTV footage of the area and everything will be clear," advocate Zulfiquar Memon said.
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