Bollywood actor Imran Khan faces a directive to leave the country by October 28 after participating in a public demonstration in Mumbai. The notice was issued following his involvement in a protest directed against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Since the actor holds US citizenship alongside an Overseas Citizen of India card, he is now preparing to approach the High Court to challenge this administrative decision. Amidst these developments, his partner Lekha Washington has drawn widespread attention by posting a revealing photograph on social media to express her unwavering support.
Sharing Solidarity Through a Police Van Photograph
Lekha Washington took to her Instagram account to share an image capturing herself seated alongside Imran Khan inside a police van. The picture dates back to October 10, when the couple was taken into custody during a protest in Mumbai. Accompanying the photo with only a heart emoji, her understated post is widely interpreted as a strong gesture of solidarity with the actor. Prior to this, filmmaker Kiran Rao had also expressed her displeasure regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding the actor.
Family Reactions and the Genesis of the Protest
The post received immediate engagement from near relatives, including the actor's cousin Zayan Marie Khan, who commented that you are love alongside red heart emojis. This restrained yet powerful method of backing has resonated strongly with followers. The underlying controversy stems from a gathering held on October 10 at Mumbai August Kranti Maiden. The demonstration was organized to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in support of a movement linked to the Cockroach Janata Party.
Voter List Concerns and Custody Allegations
Protesters at the site raised questions regarding alleged irregularities witnessed during the voter list SIR process. Imran Khan had arrived at the demonstration accompanied by his partner Lekha Washington and cousin Zayan Marie Khan. Police personnel subsequently detained Imran and several others before releasing them later that day. Following her release, Lekha detailed her experience online, alleging that uniformed officers handled her and Zayan in a manner that caused physical injuries. According to her account, they were driven around for hours in a vehicle and subsequently prevented from utilizing public transportation.
Reasons Behind the Departure Notice
Imran Khan holds US citizenship and possesses an Overseas Citizen of India card enabling his stay. On October 15, the Foreigners Regional Registration Office in Mumbai issued a formal notice requiring him to leave India by October 28. This action was initiated following a complaint lodged by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, who questioned the actor's participation in a political demonstration. The notice accuses Imran of breaching provisions outlined in the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. Although this represents an administrative action, the legal battle is set to move to the judicial system.
