A formal complaint has been lodged against American Christian evangelist William Samuel Winston, also known as Bill Winston, alleging that he is violating ourcountry’s visa regulations. The complaint, filed by the Legal Rights Protection Forum, Hyderabad, states that Winston, who has been a frequent visitor to Bharat, is participating in religious activities in contravention of the Foreigners Act, 1946.

According to the complaint, Bill Winston is scheduled to visit Hyderabad on October 15, 2024, to attend a religious event, “Hyderabad Faith Conference,” hosted by the King’s Temple Church. The four-day conference is slated to take place from October 18 to 21, 2024, at SVIT College Auditorium, near Mehbooba College, Secunderabad.

Winston, an international pastor and founder of Bill Winston Ministries, based in Oak Park, Illinois, has been the chief guest and principal speaker at the annual “Hyderabad Faith Conference” since 2010. The complainant claims that Winston’s participation in such religious gatherings violates Bharatiya visa norms, as foreign nationals, regardless of visa type, are not permitted to engage in religious activities within Bharat.

In the letter addressed to the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) in Hyderabad, the Legal Rights Protection Forum emphasizes that Winston’s continued involvement in religious conferences goes against Section 14(b) of the Foreigners Act, 1946. This section prohibits foreign nationals from engaging in activities not permitted under their visa category, including religious preaching and participation in religious events.

As of now, there has been no official statement from the authorities or Bill Winston’s representatives. The complaint highlights concerns over the potential misuse of visa provisions and underscores the need for stricter enforcement of immigration laws in such cases.

The King’s Temple Church, known for hosting religious events, has yet to comment on the allegations raised against their frequent guest and principal speaker.