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Actor Imran Khan has promised to stay away from protests in India, with his participation in the October 10 Mumbai SIR demonstration now turning into a legal battle over his status as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). Appearing before the Bombay High Court, the actor submitted an unconditional apology and gave an undertaking that he would neither join future protests nor encourage anyone else to take part in them.

The undertaking came on Monday, November 2, after the court sought clarity on his position during the hearing of his petition challenging the Foreigners Regional Registration Office’s (FRRO) Leave India Notice.

What Imran Khan told the Bombay High Court

In his written statement, Imran Khan maintained that he had visited the protest site near August Kranti Maidan in South Mumbai only to understand why people’s movement was being restricted and their voices suppressed. He said he had no intention of making demands or influencing the protest.

“I had no intent, as can be seen from my limited remarks to the media on October 10, 2026. I have never made any demands and have categorically stated that I am no one to make any demands,” the actor stated.

However, he agreed to stay away from such demonstrations in the future.

“I volunteer to provide an undertaking to the Union of India that I shall not participate in any protests in the future, nor shall I directly or indirectly influence or instigate others to participate in any such protest,” he added.

The actor also expressed hope that his undertaking would bring an end to the controversy surrounding his alleged participation and the action taken against him afterwards.

HC questions his participation in SIR protest

During the hearing, a bench comprising Chief Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Advait M Sethna questioned why Imran Khan had joined a demonstration concerning the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) when he was not directly affected by the exercise.

The court observed that, as an OCI cardholder, the actor could not claim the same rights as Indian citizens.

The bench remarked that he was not “remotely affected by the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)” and said he had “no such right to venture into such activities”.

The court also made it clear that OCI cardholders cannot be “put at par with Indian citizens” when it comes to constitutional rights available to citizens.

After taking his undertaking on record, however, the High Court suggested that the authorities show a “big heart” and consider taking a “lenient approach” towards him.

Actor cites 42 years in India, family and professional ties

In his undertaking, Imran Khan also highlighted his long association with India and said he had no criminal record.

He stated that during his 42 years in the country, he had “strictly adhered to the law and honoured the laws of this great nation in their letter and spirit”.

The actor further said that he had immense respect for India and its Constitution despite holding OCI status.

“Being an OCI holder, I have the utmost love and respect for this great nation and its Constitution,” he stated, adding that he had contributed to the country through tax payments and by creating employment opportunities.

Imran Khan also pointed to his personal and professional connections. He said he had married in India and had a daughter from the marriage. His extended family, he added, was Indian by birth.

He also referred to his family’s contribution to the film industry, stating that his life, profession and affiliations were all connected to India.

The Bombay High Court has kept the FRRO’s Leave India Notice in abeyance until December 7.

The court also observed that, during this period, Imran Khan was expected to remain in India as a “law-abiding person” and refrain from associating with or participating in activities and protests.