Bloodshed fears after rapist guru is sentenced

Thousands of supporters of a guru convicted of rape have left his headquarters in northern India as authorities relaxed a curfew before his sentencing.

They responded to an appeal by authorities to go home after followers protested at Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh being convicted of raping two female disciples. A curfew had been imposed in Sirsa, where his headquarters is based.

Thirty-eight people died and hundreds were hurt in riots after his conviction.

Authorities fear more bloodshed will follow when he is sentenced today. The guru faces seven years to life in prison.

Police say around 10,000 people remain near his main office. Hundreds of government forces, including the army, have been posted to try to prevent more violence.