Evangelism activities: Assam deports Canadian national on tourist visa

Dispur: The Assam administration deported a Canadian citizen, identified as Brandon Joe Devealt, over religious activities without proper authorization. Devealt, who got deported on February 6, was also accused of overstaying his visa, Siasat reported.

Residing in Assam till his deportation, Devealth’s visa expired on January 17. Jorhat Police detained him on February 5th and

immigration authorities in the state conducted a deep investigation through collaboration with the Foreigner’s Regional Registration Office (FRRO) after his detention.

Jorhat Superintendent of Police (SP) Shwetank Mishra said that the Canadian was carrying out evangelism activities at the Grace Church situated in Borbheta. According to him, authorities received information that Devealt was continuing his activities despite an expired visa.

Authorities watched his activities after he initiated a visa renewal process, and they started an additional investigation into his activities.

Mishra said that Devealt ran a YouTube channel to attract locals to Christianity. He actively worked to convert local residents to the faith, the senior official claimed.

After his apprehension, the channel was deactivated, and the police had solid evidence against him to initiate legal processes, Mishra claimed.

Immigration rules in India prohibit those holding tourist visas from participating in all religious and missionary activities. A breach of the rule results in deportation.

After it was confirmed that Devealt committed visa violations, FRRO Kolkata issued him a “Leave India” notice.