Three Americans must leave India by May 10 after Pune police caught them distributing religious pamphlets and preaching, violating strict tourist visa laws against proselytization.
PUNE
Three American citizens have been ordered to leave India by May 10 after Pune City Police found them allegedly engaging in religious preaching while on tourist visas.
The individuals identified as James Ritchie Hudson (65), Frantz Thomas (53), and Garry Rosemond Jean (64), were served a formal “Leave India Notice” for violating strict immigration laws that prohibit proselytization on a tourist visa.
The incident unfolded in the Shukrawar Peth area. According to police reports, a local cab driver became suspicious when the trio approached him and handed him pamphlets printed in English, Hindi, and Marathi titled “Why is the world so divided?” The driver alleged that the men attempted to persuade him regarding their religious beliefs, asserting the superiority of Christianity. He immediately alerted nearby police personnel who were deployed for a local rally.
Upon questioning and a search of their belongings at the local police station, authorities recovered a large quantity of religious literature. The Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) confirmed the violation, noting that “prachar” (preaching) is strictly forbidden for those entering the country on e-Tourist visas.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (FRO) Sandeep Bhajibhakare emphasized that the action was taken strictly in accordance with visa regulations. Police are also investigating whether any local organizations assisted the trio in their activities. Failure to leave the country by the stipulated date could lead to formal prosecution and deportation.Key details of notice
Current Status: The individuals, who had been staying at a hotel in Pimpri-Chinchwad, are now being monitored to ensure they comply with the departure deadline.
Individuals Involved: Three US nationals (ages 53, 64, and 65).
Deadline to Exit: May 10, 2026.
Legal Grounds: Violation of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, which mandates that tourists must not engage in missionary or religious activities.