Overview

• James Watson, 58, a US citizen, and locals Sainath Ganpati Sarpe, 42, and Manoj Govind Kolha, 35, were detained in Chimbipada, Bhiwandi, after a villager’s complaint.
• The FIR alleges a prayer meet outside Kolha’s home where Christian literature was distributed to about 30–35 villagers and claims were made that converting would cure ailments.
• Investigators say the complaint includes statements that Hinduism was based on blind faith, along with an incident in which four girls were identified and Watson placed his hands on their foreheads claiming healing power.
• Police booked the trio under BNS Sections 299 and 302, the Foreigners Act for suspected visa violations, and Maharashtra’s 2013 anti‑black magic law; a viral video of the confrontation drew public attention.
• All three remain in police custody as officers question Watson about his business‑visa activities, prior visits to India, local contacts, and any broader network.