I agree. how is praying for anyone to come to be saved by Christ, going to harm them in anyway?
Perhaps because they didn't ask to be prayed for. It's like a slap in the face by holier than thou Christians. They believe in God and don't go around wearing bombs on their belts so leave them alone.
As to the latter, that fear has basis in historical fact. As to the former, ..what?
BEcause it’s only one step from there to forced conversions.