The Allahabad High Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to register a First Information Report (FIR) against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over allegations of holding British citizenship, according to multiple sources including The Hindu and NDTV. This order stems from a petition filed by a BJP worker questioning Gandhi's citizenship status.
The case concerns accusations that Gandhi concealed his alleged British citizenship while registering a company, with the Allahabad High Court's Lucknow bench taking up the matter amid escalating political scrutiny. The court's directive to initiate the FIR follows examination of documents submitted by the petitioner, reports Hindustan Times.
However, several reports from Hindustan Times and NDTV indicate that the court has deferred the final decision on proceeding with the FIR, emphasizing that a hearing for Gandhi to present his viewpoint is necessary before any further action. The court is also considering legal arguments on whether prior notice to the accused is mandated.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot described the court's initial order to file an FIR as "surprising" and "unwarranted," highlighting the political tensions surrounding the case, according to The Hindu. The investigation has been approved to transfer to a central agency for further inquiry.
Observers will be watching the upcoming court hearings closely, as the legal process will determine whether the FIR is formally registered and what implications this might have for Gandhi's political career and citizenship verification norms in India. The case underscores the ongoing political debates around dual citizenship allegations.
Allahabad High Court
Rahul Gandhi
Lucknow
