Overview

• Police in Bhiwandi arrested three on Friday after a villager reported a conversion attempt during a gathering in Bhuishet (Chimbipada).
• The accused are American James Watson, 58, Sainath Ganpati Sarpe, 42, and Manoj Govind Kolha, 35.
• The FIR states Christian books were distributed, prayers were recited, and attendees were told that conversion would cure illnesses.
• Officers booked the trio under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Sections 299 and 302, the Foreigners Act for alleged visa misuse, and Maharashtra’s 2013 anti-black-magic law.
• Police say Watson entered on a business visa and organised the event without permission, and the investigation continues, including review of complaint claims involving minors.