NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Pune, India, April 30, 2026: Three American citizens have been issued “Leave India” notices by police in Pune for allegedly engaging in religious preaching while on tourist visas, authorities said. They have been directed to leave the country on or before May 10, 2026, for violating visa norms.
The incident came to light on April 26 when the trio—identified as James Ritchie Hudson (65), Frantz Thomas (53), and Garry Rosemond Jean (64)—were found distributing religious pamphlets near the Panchmukhi Maruti Temple. The men were staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Pune during their visit.
According to a complaint filed by a local driver, the three men handed him pamphlets in Marathi, Hindi, and English titled “Why is the world so divided?” and told him that Jesus is the greatest and no one is greater than him. The complainant alleged that the content promoted Christianity while criticizing other religions, hurting his sentiments.
Following the complaint, officials from Khadak Police Station detained the trio for questioning and registered a non-cognizable offence under Section 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, related to hurting religious sentiments.
The case was subsequently referred to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRO). On April 27, Deputy Commissioner of Police Sandeep Bhajibhakare issued formal notices stating that the individuals had violated immigration rules by engaging in religious preaching while holding tourist visas.
Police officials reiterated that foreign nationals visiting India on tourist visas are prohibited from participating in missionary or religious propagation activities. Authorities warned that failure to comply with the order could lead to further legal action.
