Overview

• A division bench of Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam A. Ankhad directed James Leonard Watson to amend his plea before any further consideration.
• The court asked Maharashtra to clarify its position on the arrest and charges, with the amended petition listed for hearing on Tuesday.
• Watson was arrested by Bhiwandi police on October 3 in a religious conversion case and remains in judicial custody until October 17.
• An FIR based on a complaint by Bajrang Dal member Ravindra Bhurkut alleges proselytisation, anti-Hindu statements, faith-healing involving minors, and misuse of a business visa.
• Watson’s petition says he was invited to a private prayer meeting and claims the complainant trespassed and posted a video, while his lawyers argue the cited human sacrifice, juvenile justice, and immigration provisions are inapplicable.