Canadian National Deported from Assam for Religious Conversion, Visa Violation
Jorhat, Assam: A Canadian citizen, Brandon Joel Dewalt, has been deported from India for alleged involvement in religious conversion activities in Assam’s Jorhat district, authorities confirmed on Friday. Dewalt, who had been residing in India on a tourist visa, was found violating visa norms, leading to his expulsion.
Visa Violation and Proselytization Allegations
Dewalt had been visiting Jorhat since 2021 and had applied for a visa renewal upon its expiration on January 17, 2025. However, an investigation by local authorities revealed that he was allegedly engaged in religious conversion activities, prompting complaints from local residents.
According to Jorhat Superintendent of Police (SP) Shwetank Mishra, Dewalt was found operating from the Grace Church at Mission Campus in Jorhat. He also managed a YouTube channel, which was reportedly used to spread religious messages and encourage conversions. Authorities have since deactivated the channel.
“His activities violated visa norms, as engaging in religious propagation is not permitted under a tourist visa,” SP Mishra stated. Following a report submitted by Assam Police, the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Kolkata issued a ‘Leave India Notice.’
Deportation Process and Legal Measures
In adherence to the deportation order, Jorhat Police escorted Dewalt to Kolkata, where he was handed over to immigration authorities. He was subsequently taken to New Delhi and placed on a flight to Toronto on Friday morning.
Indian authorities maintain a strict stance against the misuse of tourist visas for religious activities. “There is a clear legal framework in place, and violations of visa conditions cannot be tolerated,” an official stated.
Past Incidents of Similar Nature
Dewalt’s deportation is not an isolated case. In 2022, seven German nationals and three Swedish nationals were expelled from Assam for allegedly engaging in evangelical activities while on tourist visas. Assam Police continue to monitor foreign nationals to prevent such violations.
Concerns Over Illegal Religious Activities
Religious conversions remain a contentious issue in India, especially in states like Assam, where unauthorized missionary activities are closely scrutinized. While Indian citizens have the right to practice and propagate their faith, foreign nationals are restricted from engaging in religious activities involving conversion under tourist visas.
SP Mishra reaffirmed the commitment of Assam Police to enforcing immigration laws. “We are committed to ensuring that foreign nationals respect the terms of their visas and do not engage in activities that violate Indian laws. Strict action will be taken in such cases,” he emphasized.
Diplomatic Implications
The Indian government has communicated with the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi regarding the matter, and a response from Canadian authorities is awaited. While the deportation adhered to legal protocols, such incidents could have diplomatic ramifications, particularly amid recent tensions between India and Canada over immigration and security issues.
This case underscores the importance of adhering to visa regulations and respecting local laws. As India continues to tighten its stance on illegal proselytization, authorities are expected to maintain strict scrutiny over foreign nationals engaged in religious activities without proper authorization.
***
