'Pray for India Conference 2023' Scrapped as Activist Highlights Visa Norm Violations
Bangalore, December 16, 2023:The eagerly anticipated 'Pray for India Conference 2023' in Bangalore, featuring renowned South African televangelist Alph Lukau, has been abruptly cancelled due to a clash with Indian visa regulations. Lukau, also known as an apostle of faith, was set to address the Christian religious event on December 16th and 17th from 4 pm to 9 pm.
The cancellation stems from an activist's intervention, pointing out that foreign nationals holding any visa are not allowed to preach or propagate their religion in India, as per Indian visa norms. The announcement of the cancellation came in a regretful post, citing "unexpected and unavoidable circumstances beyond all measure."
Efforts to proceed with the gathering were made by the organizers, including a petition to the High Court seeking permission. However, Hindu activist Girish Bharadwaj countered with an "intervening application," stressing the need to uphold the law.
In a letter submitted to the Commissioner of Immigration and Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO), Bengaluru, Bharadwaj highlighted the violation of Indian visa norms, emphasizing that foreigners with any type of visa are prohibited from preaching or propagating their religion in India. The letter accused Lukau of deceiving the Indian Consulate to obtain a visa and raised concerns about the pastor's alleged intention of evangelical conversions.
The 'Pray for India Conference 2023' was organized in collaboration with Shalom and the All India Christian Federation, aiming to provide an opportunity to "experience the power of faith." However, the controversy surrounding Lukau's past activities, particularly the 'resurrection stunt' in 2019, has sparked legal action in South Africa.
A group of funeral directors, including Kingdom Blue, Kings & Queens Funeral Services, and Black Phoenix, announced their intention to sue Lukau for reputational harm. The preacher claimed to have brought a deceased man back to life, a widely criticized incident that drew attention to alleged schemes and fraud within the church.
The controversy surrounding Lukau's claims of miraculous events has led to skepticism and legal repercussions. The canceled 'Pray for India Conference 2023' highlights the challenges faced by foreign evangelists in navigating visa regulations and cultural sensitivities in India. As debates on the role of such figures intensify, questions about the authenticity of miracles and the responsibility of religious leaders continue to emerge.
