Police have arrested a Hindu priest and another person for allegedly coming to spread Hinduism in the name of spiritual healing classes at a hotel in Male'.

The man, identified as Dr Ganesh Dubey, advertised through his own social media accounts claiming that he had come to the country to conduct spiritual healing classes for USD 100 per session.

In a message sent to the media on Thursday, police said it had come to their attention that the man, who had come to the Maldives on a tourist visa, posted on social media that he was conducting classes to teach them how to solve the problems spiritually.

"We have arrested the accused and another person suspected to be involved in the incident and are investigating the matter," police said.

Police further said that since the case is a violation of the Protection of Religious Harmony Act, appropriate action will be taken against those detained in coordination with the concerned government agencies.

Islamic Minister Dr. Ahmed Zahir Ali today said that a complaint has been filed with the police to take action against the Hindu priest. Section 4 of the Protection of Religious Harmony Act prohibits any attempt to disturb the religious harmony of the people of the country, making statements that are prejudicial to the religion of the people, acting in such a manner, or attempting to do any of these things.