Pune Police Order Three US Nationals to Leave India Over Alleged Visa Violation Linked to Religious Activities
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Pune City Police have directed three American citizens to depart India after they were found to have allegedly violated the terms of their tourist visas. The individuals, aged 53, 65, and 66, reportedly entered the country between April 19 and April 21, 2026.
Authorities stated that the action was taken after an inquiry suggested the trio was involved in activities beyond what is permitted under a tourist visa. According to officials, they were allegedly distributing religious pamphlets and engaging with local residents to share and promote Christian teachings during their stay.
The incident reportedly surfaced on April 27 in the Shukrawar Peth area of Pune. Police said the three approached a private cab driver and handed him pamphlets printed in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, and Marathi. They are also alleged to have attempted to explain and promote their religious beliefs to him.
The cab driver later informed police personnel who were deployed nearby for a public rally. Acting on the information, officers brought the three foreign nationals to a local police station, where their passports and travel documents were examined.
During the check, officials also recovered a substantial collection of printed religious material from their possession. This prompted further scrutiny by the Foreigners Registration Office under Pune Police.
Following the inquiry, authorities concluded that the individuals had allegedly breached visa regulations by engaging in religious preaching and related activities while in India on tourist visas. Based on these findings, police issued a “Leave India Notice” under the provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, instructing them to exit the country by May 10, 2026.
The case has now been processed through the relevant immigration channels, with officials reiterating that foreign nationals must strictly adhere to the conditions of their visas during their stay in India.
