Imran Khan was just passing through, didn’t take part in Mumbai protests: Lawyers

The controversy erupted after BJP ex-MP Kirit Somaiya sought action against Khan

MUMBAI: Lawyers of actor Imran Khan, who has been asked by FRRO to leave the country by Oct 28, contend that he did not participate in the protest at August Kranti Maidan last Saturday.Speaking to the media moments before being detained at the protest site, the actor had said, "I am here as a citizen, as a person who lives in this city. I am here to see why freedom of movement is being restricted, why are people's voices being repressed."

The controversy erupted after BJP ex-MP Kirit Somaiya sought action against Khan, saying the actor had no rights to protest challenging govt policy as he was a foreigner.The defence also intends to question the allegation that Khan participated in the protest in the manner claimed by the complainant. "Let police take out the CCTV footage of the area and everything will be clear," advocate Zulfiquar Memon said. Apart from Memon, Khan is being represented by Parvez Memon and Chirag Naik from MZM Legal LLP.According to the actor's defence, he was passing through Nana Chowk when the road was barricaded and media representatives approached him.

The legal team plans to seek CCTV footage to establish his movements and determine whether he was an active participant in the demonstration.These are the defence's claims and will need to be tested against evidence.The police had registered a case against the protestors, including Khan, for illegal assembly since police had not granted them permission for the protest.

Minister of state for home Yogesh Kadam defended the FRRO's decision. "When you enter a country, a visa is issued and certain conditions are stated. You cannot violate those conditions, and if any violation occurs, the relevant Act applies and a notice is issued," he said. Tushar Gandhi, who had called for Saturday's protest, condemned the action.