Allahabad HC directs FIR against Rahul Gandhi on dual citizenship charge

The Allahabad High Court has directed that a case be registered against Rahul Gandhi in connection with allegations related to dual citizenship. The Lucknow Bench observed that the matter warrants an inquiry and asked the Uttar Pradesh government to either conduct the investigation itself or refer it to a central agency.

The direction came on a petition filed by BJP worker S Vignesh Shishir, who challenged a lower court order that had earlier rejected his plea for registration of an FIR against Rahul Gandhi. The Lucknow special MP/MLA court had held that it was not competent to decide issues relating to citizenship, prompting the petitioner to approach the High Court.

The petitioner has alleged that Rahul Gandhi holds British citizenship and submitted documents and emails claimed to be from UK authorities in support of his claim. He has argued that this makes Gandhi ineligible to contest elections or serve as a Member of Parliament. The plea also invoked provisions under multiple laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Passport Act, Foreigners Act, and Official Secrets Act.

According to the court order, the investigation must be carried out either by the state police or through a central agency, with the bench holding that the allegations require proper verification. The case originated in Rae Bareli before being transferred to Lucknow by the High Court earlier, and the matter has now been sent back for investigation following the latest direction.

The court’s decision adds a new dimension to the long-running controversy, while the Congress party has not yet issued an official response. The petitioner has described the ruling as a major legal development, while political reactions are expected to intensify in the coming days.