Two states on alert ahead of verdict on Ram Rahim
The Punjab and Haryana High Court directed the Union government on Thursday to take preemptive measures to prevent violence as 200,000 supporters of controversial Dera Sacha Sauda sect leader Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh congregated in Panchkula ahead of a verdict in a rape trial against him.
The army is said to be kept ready to tackle any eventuality as the court asked Haryana and Punjab governments why they allowed so many people to gather at one place despite prohibitory orders.
For his part, Singh tweeted that he would be present at the hearing in a CBI special court on Friday.
“I have always respected the law of the land. Despite pain in the back, I will be present in the court and respect law and order. I have full faith in God. I appeal to everyone to maintain peace,” he said.
Anti-riot policemen stand guard on a barricaded road leading to a court in Panchkula on Thursday.
The 50-year-old self-styled spiritual leader’s trial triggered a security lockdown in both states and Chandigarh with police closing schools and converting a cricket stadium into a jail in case his followers turn violent if he is found guilty.
The burly, bearded man who has scripted and starred in his own films and commands a near-devo-tional following is accused of raping two women in cases that date back to 2002. He denies all charges.
“The verdict could lead to potential large-scale unrest and violence,” said Ajay Kumar, assistant commissioner of police (law and order) in Panchkula.
Preventive steps were taken following reports that his supporters have stockpile weapons, including lathis and guns.