MUMBAI: Bollywood actor Imran Khan has tendered an unconditional apology to the Bombay High Court over his participation in a protest in India and pledged not to attend any demonstrations in the future.
According to Indian media reports, Khan submitted a written undertaking to the court, promising that he would neither participate in protests nor directly or indirectly encourage anyone else to join such demonstrations.
The actor said he had visited a protest near August Kranti Maidan in south Mumbai on October 10 only to understand why people’s movement was being restricted and why their voices were being suppressed.
He maintained that he had not attended the demonstration to make any demands or influence the protesters’ position.
During the hearing, a bench comprising Chief Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Advait M. Sethna questioned why Khan had joined a protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process when he was not directly affected by it.
The court observed that Khan, as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder, did not enjoy the same constitutional rights as Indian citizens and could not claim the same entitlement to participate in such activities.
After taking note of his undertaking not to attend future protests, the court advised authorities to adopt a lenient approach towards the actor.
In his written statement, Khan also cited his 42-year association with India, clean legal record and personal and professional ties to the country.
He said he had always respected Indian laws and had deep affection and respect for India and its Constitution.
The actor further told the court that he got married in India, has a daughter and that most of his family members are also based in the country. He added that he had contributed to the Indian economy through tax payments and by creating employment opportunities.
Khan has challenged a notice issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) directing him to leave India before the Bombay High Court.
The court has stayed the notice until December 7 and directed the actor to comply with Indian law and refrain from participating in protest activities during this period.
