Political Tensions Rise Over Imran Khans Departure from India

Mumbai, October 15 (Daily Kiran) : Political rhetoric has escalated in Mumbai regarding the directive for actor Imran Khan to leave India. Sanjay Nirupam, a spokesperson for the Shiv Sena party, defended the police’s actions, while AIMIM spokesperson Waris Pathan accused the BJP of fostering anti-Muslim sentiments.

BJP legislator Parinay Fuke targeted Khan, alleging he attempted to tarnish the country’s image. BJP leader Kirit Somaiya also accused the actor of receiving foreign funding and conspiring to incite chaos in India.

In an interview, Nirupam stated that Khan, an American citizen, is residing in India on a visa. He emphasized that foreign nationals are prohibited from participating in protests or political activities against the Indian government. Nirupam claimed that Khan violated these conditions, resulting in his detention. Following this, authorities instructed him to leave India by October 28.

Waris Pathan raised concerns about the order for Khan to depart, suggesting that BJP leaders are targeting individuals with Muslim names. He remarked, “BJP leaders seem to have developed a phobia towards Muslims. They become uneasy whenever they see a ‘Khan.’ We have seen other faces at the protest as well. Has the government issued notices to them too?”

Pathan further asserted that the actions against Khan were motivated by a desire to spread hatred. He emphasized that while Khan is not an Indian citizen, questioning the reasons behind the actions taken against him is essential. “Imran Khan is not a terrorist; the government has merely seized an opportunity. This is nothing but Muslim phobia,” he stated.

Fuke also made sharp comments about Khan, supporting the Mumbai police’s actions during an interview in Nagpur. He accused the actor of attempting to damage the country’s reputation through protests, asserting, “Individuals like Imran Khan are trying to defame our nation. Such snakes should be crushed, and the Mumbai police know how to handle this.”

Kirit Somaiya made serious allegations against Khan, claiming in a recorded video that the American citizen is receiving funding from Pakistan and other countries. He suggested that this support is being used to incite chaos in India. Somaiya welcomed the police and immigration department’s actions and called for similar measures against those using foreign funds to disrupt peace in the country.

Somaiya previously filed a complaint against Khan, demanding a travel ban on the actor until the police investigation is completed.