Actor Imran Khan has assured the Bombay High Court that he will stay away from protests in the future, submitting an unconditional apology and a written undertaking after controversy over his alleged presence at a demonstration. The actor maintained that he had gone to the protest site only to observe the proceedings and had no intention of taking part in the agitation.

His legal representatives from MZM Legal placed the apology and undertaking, signed by Khan, before a bench of Chief Justice MC Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna on Monday.

In the affidavit, Khan committed himself to not participating in any future protest or encouraging others to do so, either directly or indirectly.

“I shall not participate in any protest in the future, nor shall I directly or indirectly influence or instigate others to participate in any such protest,” the undertaking stated.

Imran Khan stresses his ties to India

Seeking to explain his position, the actor said India had been his home for most of his life and emphasised his respect for the country's laws and constitutional values.

Khan, who is 42, said he had spent 40 years in India and had consistently followed the law.

“In the last 42 years of my life, 40 of which have been spent in India, I have strictly adhered to the law and honoured the laws of this great nation in their letter and spirit,” he said in the affidavit.

He also cited his tax contributions and the employment opportunities generated through his professional work as ways in which he had contributed to the country.

“My life, profession and affiliation are all confined to this great nation,” Khan said, reiterating his “utmost love and respect” for India and its Constitution.

Actor says he was present only as a spectator

Addressing the circumstances that led to the legal controversy, Khan denied having any intention of joining the demonstration. He said his presence at the location was only to understand what was unfolding and that he had not made any demands as part of the protest.

“I had no intent,” he said, maintaining that he was merely a spectator.

The actor expressed hope that the unconditional apology and his promise to avoid future protests would bring the matter to a close.