'Complete fool, unemployed and needs media attention'; Actress against Imran Khan over CJP protest row

MUMBAI: Actress Payal Rohatgi launched a sharp attack against actor Imran Khan for his participation in CJP protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Rohatgi remarked that actors with no work often join such protests to gain attention, and she also called Imran a "fool." Rohatgi’s criticism comes in the wake of reports that Khan received a deportation notice from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) following his participation in the protest.

Payal:

“Look, he ought to have the sense to know that he shouldn't be doing such foolish things. For one thing, he is not an Indian citizen; he is a U.S. citizen. Furthermore, he lives and works here in India. He is also married, but it seems he hasn't obtained a visa—or perhaps he is divorced; I really don't know.

Many actors who lack opportunities—those who are unemployed—often participate in such protests. They go there to gain a bit more attention. Many actors without work show up precisely for media attention.”

Mumbai Police have directed Imran Khan to leave the country by October 28, following his participation in a protest. The notice states that action will be taken against him—a non-Indian citizen—under the relevant provisions of immigration law due to his involvement in the protest. Imran Khan holds US citizenship; he does not possess full Indian citizenship but instead holds an 'Overseas Citizen of India' (OCI) card.

Khan was among those who participated in a protest against Gyanesh Kumar held at August Kranti Maidan in Mumbai on October 10th. He was accompanied by his partner, actress Lekha Washington, and his relative, Zayn Marie Khan. During the protest, all three were taken into police custody and subsequently released.