OCI cardholders at 'mercy' of country: HC raps Imran Khan, but extends interim relief

Key Points:

• US citizen and OCI cardholder Khan was allowed to continue his stay in India after tendering an unconditional apology for alleged participation in a protest against the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls; the next court hearing is scheduled for December 7.
• The court emphasized that OCI cardholders cannot live in India and criticize the country, noting that Khan, despite living in India since childhood and building his career there, does not have the same rights as Indian citizens.
• Khan denied crossing barricades or actively participating in the protest and stated he was present to observe restrictions on freedom of movement; his lawyer argued that actions against him were disproportionate given his long residence in India.
• The Foreigners Regional Registration Officer opposed Khan's petition, asserting that OCI holders do not have the right to protest and the government can ask such foreign nationals to leave at its discretion.
• The court ordered Khan to submit an unconditional apology and undertaking, warned him against future involvement in such activities, and directed the government to file a reply affidavit ahead of the December 7 hearing.