MUMBAI, India (Diya TV) — Police in Thane, a suburb of Mumbai, India have arrested an American citizen and two Indian nationals for allegedly organizing an unauthorized prayer meeting aimed at religious conversion. Authorities say the event violated state laws and visa conditions, raising concerns of possible foreign involvement.

Bhiwandi police identified the American as James Watson, 58, and the Indian nationals as Sainath Sarape and Manoj Kolha. Officers detained the trio on October 4 in Chimbipada village, located in Maharashtra’s Thane district. Investigators allege the men attempted to convert residents to Christianity by promising miraculous healing and financial prosperity.

Officials say Watson entered India on a business visa, but participated in religious activities that violated visa restrictions. The group allegedly held the prayer meeting without official permission, in what police describe as a covert attempt to influence villagers.

The arrests followed complaints from villagers who grew suspicious about the nature of the gathering. Locals reported that the men were encouraging conversions under the guise of spiritual healing. Police launched an investigation after receiving multiple reports from attendees and community leaders.

Authorities claim the group’s actions may have breached Maharashtra’s anti-conversion law, which prohibits religious conversion through inducement, coercion, or misrepresentation. “We received credible information that the trio was conducting unauthorized religious activities,” a senior Bhiwandi police officer said. “Their actions violated visa conditions and local regulations.”

Investigators are examining whether the suspects were part of a larger network promoting religious conversions across Maharashtra and neighboring states. Police sources say they are also reviewing digital evidence and financial records to determine whether the operation received funding or support from foreign organizations.

Unconfirmed reports suggest Watson may be a former U.S. military officer with possible ties to intelligence agencies, including the CIA. While authorities have not verified these claims, they are reportedly investigating his background and travel history.

“We are looking into Watson’s connections and the purpose of his visit,” said a police official involved in the case. “Any evidence of coordinated foreign influence will be taken very seriously.”

Police have charged Watson, Sarape, and Kolha under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 299, 302, 3(5), 223, and 126(2). These provisions relate to criminal conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and attempts to disturb public order.

Watson faces an additional charge under Section 14 of the Foreign Nationals Act for violating visa conditions. Authorities say further charges may be added depending on the outcome of the investigation.

The trio remains in police custody while investigators collect statements from witnesses and analyze seized digital devices. Officials are also coordinating with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) and the Ministry of Home Affairs to verify Watson’s visa status and travel purpose.

The case has reignited debate over religious conversion practices and foreign missionary activities in India. Maharashtra’s anti-conversion law, similar to those in several other states, aims to prevent conversions through allurement or deceit. Critics argue that such laws can be misused, while supporters say they protect vulnerable communities from manipulation.

Local authorities have appealed for calm as the investigation continues. “We urge residents not to spread rumors,” said a district official. “The police are handling the matter with transparency and due process.”

The arrest of an American citizen on such charges highlights growing scrutiny of foreign nationals engaged in religious or social work in India. Authorities have repeatedly warned visitors to adhere strictly to visa guidelines and avoid activities outside the scope of their approved purpose.

Watson’s arrest could also strain diplomatic channels if the U.S. government seeks consular access or clarification. The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi has not yet commented on the case.

As of Monday, police were continuing to question the suspects and collect evidence from the site of the prayer meeting. Investigators say they will submit a detailed report once forensic and financial analyses are complete.

Officials emphasized that anyone found guilty of violating Indian law, regardless of nationality, will face appropriate legal consequences. “The law applies equally to everyone,” a police spokesperson said. “We will ensure justice is served based on facts and evidence.”