Allahabad High Court Orders FIR Probe Against Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged British Citizenship Plea
In a significant development, the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court has directed the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Rahul Gandhi in connection with allegations regarding his alleged British citizenship.
The order was passed by Justice Subhash Vidyarthi, who set aside a previous decision of a Lucknow court that had refused to direct the lodging of an FIR. The High Court has now ordered a proper investigation into the matter.
📌 Background of the Case
Earlier in January 2026, an ACJM court in Lucknow had dismissed a plea seeking criminal action against Rahul Gandhi under multiple laws, including:
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Official Secrets Act
- Passport Act
- Foreigners Act
The plea was filed by Karnataka-based BJP worker Vignesh Shishir, who later challenged the lower court’s decision before the High Court.
⚖️ Allegations Presented Before the Court
During the hearing, the petitioner claimed that Rahul Gandhi allegedly held British citizenship and was associated with a UK-based company named M/S Backops Ltd., incorporated in August 2003.
It was argued that official documents of the company reportedly mentioned Gandhi’s nationality as British, along with addresses in London and Hampshire. The petitioner also referred to annual returns filed in 2005 and 2006, where similar details were allegedly recorded.
🏛️ Additional Claims and Legal Arguments
The petitioner further submitted that the company was dissolved in February 2009 and alleged that Gandhi had disclosed ownership of the company and a foreign bank account in London during the 2004 Lok Sabha elections.
Based on these claims, the petitioner argued that offences under the Foreigners Act, Passport Act, and Official Secrets Act may be attracted, warranting a criminal investigation.
👩⚖️ Court Proceedings and Representation
Advocate Vindeshwari Pandey appeared for the petitioner, while the State was represented by Government Advocate V.K. Singh along with other Additional Government Advocates.
The Union of India was represented by DSGI S.B. Pandey, assisted by a team of advocates. The High Court, after hearing submissions, directed that an FIR be registered and the matter be investigated.
📢 What Happens Next
The detailed order of the High Court is still awaited, which is expected to clarify the legal reasoning and scope of the investigation.
Following the FIR, investigative authorities will examine the allegations and relevant documents before taking further legal steps. The outcome of the probe will determine whether any charges are formally established.
This order marks an important judicial intervention, reopening a matter that was earlier dismissed by a lower court. The High Court’s direction ensures that the allegations are subjected to formal investigation under the law.
Further developments will depend on the findings of the investigation and the detailed judgment to be released by the court.