The Allahabad High Court on Friday directed that the allegation that Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, holds dual citizenship be inquired into. The Lucknow Bench asked the Uttar Pradesh government to either carry out the investigation itself or have it conducted through a central agency.

The direction came while hearing a petition seeking registration of a case and a detailed probe into claims that Gandhi may also hold British citizenship. The petitioner argued that if such allegations are established, they could have serious implications for his eligibility to contest elections and continue as a Member of Parliament.

The plea invokes provisions under various laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Official Secrets Act, the Foreigners Act, and the Passport Act, alleging possible violations arising from the claim of dual citizenship.

According to the petitioner, certain documents and email communications purportedly from UK authorities have been placed on record to support the allegations.

The issue had earlier been raised before a lower court, which declined to direct registration of a case citing lack of jurisdiction over citizenship-related matters. The petitioner thereafter approached the High Court, which has now held that the allegations warrant an inquiry.

With this direction, the matter is expected to have significant legal and political ramifications going forward