World · India Bureau
Pakistan cricketer Imran Khan asked to quit India over protest row
Pakistani cricket icon Imran Khan was directed to leave India following his participation in an anti-poll body demonstration. Indian authorities invoked provisions of the Foreigners Act in connection with the incident.
LSN India ·

Pakistani cricket legend Imran Khan has been asked to leave India after his involvement in a protest against the Chief Election Commission, law enforcement officials said. The directive came after Khan's participation in demonstrations criticised by local authorities as unsuitable conduct for a visiting foreign national.
Police invoked sections of the Foreigners Act—legislation governing the conduct and movement of non-citizens in India—in connection with the matter. Officials did not provide specific details about the nature of the anti-CEC protest or the circumstances that prompted authorities to take action against the high-profile visitor.
The incident marks a diplomatic friction point between the two neighbouring nations. Khan, who remains a prominent public figure in Pakistan following his competitive cricket career and subsequent foray into politics, was in India when the situation unfolded.
Authorities have not disclosed whether Khan complied with the directive or provided a timeline for his departure. The case highlights sensitivities surrounding political activism by foreign nationals on Indian soil and the government's use of immigration laws to manage such situations.