Dual Citizenship Case: Allahabad HC Stays FIR Order Against Rahul Gandhi

The Allahabad High Court on Saturday stayed its own order directing the registration of an FIR against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a dual citizenship case, a day after issuing the directive.

The court said no final view could be taken without first giving Gandhi an opportunity to present his case. As a result, the earlier direction issued in open court on Friday has been put on hold, and the FIR will not be registered for now.

The case stems from a petition filed by Vignesh Shishir, who moved the high court after a special MP-MLA court in Lucknow declined to entertain the matter in January 2026. The plea alleges that Gandhi holds British citizenship, which would violate Indian law if proven.

The petition claims that the alleged offences could attract provisions under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), the Foreigners Act and the Passport Act. It also accuses Gandhi of sharing information with foreign entities and obtaining a fake passport.

Earlier, Justice Subhash Vidyarthi had observed that the allegations appeared to disclose “prima facie cognizable offences” and had orally directed registration of an FIR. However, the final signed order has not been issued, and the direction has now been stayed.

Speaking to ANI, the petitioner described the earlier direction as significant and claimed the court had taken note of the allegations regarding Gandhi’s nationality.

The matter remains pending before the high court and is expected to be taken up again after hearing all parties.