Imran Khan Granted Extension to Stay in India Until November 2
The Bombay High Court has allowed Imran Khan to remain in India until at least November 2, following a plea against a departure notice.
Imran Khan is not required to leave India before November 2, 2026.
The Bombay High Court is reviewing a departure notice issued by the FRRO.
The case stems from Khan's involvement in protests against the Chief Election Commissioner.
Bollywood actor Imran Khan has received a reprieve from the Bombay High Court, allowing him to remain in India until at least November 2, 2026. This decision came after the Foreigners Registration Regional Office (FRRO) in Mumbai assured the court that Khan would not be required to leave the country before that date. The court's ruling was made during a hearing on October 27, 2026, where a division bench led by Chief Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi addressed Khan's challenge against a 'Leave India Notice' (LIN) issued to him.
The LIN was issued following Khan's participation in protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The urgency of the matter was highlighted during the hearing, as the notice required Khan to depart by October 28, 2026. Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh requested a postponement of the hearing until November 2, citing the absence of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who could not attend via video conference.
Senior advocate Venkatesh Dhond, representing Khan, emphasized the imminent deadline posed by the LIN, prompting Chief Justice Tripathi to question the timing of the request for adjournment. In response, ASG Singh assured the court that they were only seeking a brief extension. The bench ultimately agreed to adjourn the hearing until Monday, November 2, without formally recording the assurance given by the ASG.
This case has significant implications for Khan, as it not only affects his ability to remain in India but also highlights the legal complexities surrounding the issuance of departure notices. The protests that led to this situation reflect broader political tensions in the country, particularly concerning the electoral process and governance.
Looking ahead, the next court session on November 2 will be crucial for Khan, as it will determine the future course of his legal battle against the FRRO's notice. Observers will be keen to see how the court navigates the legal arguments presented and whether further developments arise from the ongoing protests that initially prompted the LIN.
