CHANDIGARH:
At least two major cities - Chandigarh and Panchkula - are in complete lockdown as they brace for a court verdict tomorrow on whether popular and self-styled spiritual guru Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singhsexually exploited two women followers nearly 15 years ago.
Nearly two lakhs of Ram Rahim's followers have gathered already in Panchkula, some 15 kms from Chandigarh, where the ruling will be delivered tomorrow at 2.30 pm. Many of them say they have walked long distances in the hope of glimpsing the 50-year-old. Ram Rahim, also known as the 'Guru of Bling' on account of a penchant for bejewelled costumes, said on Twitter today that he will appear in court for the verdict, as ordered by the judge.
"Although, I have back pain, I will abide by the law and will go to court. I have faith in God. Please maintain peace," he posted.
"The health of Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has improved now. He was unwell for quite some time," said SK Garg, a lawyer for the guru's sect, the Dera Sacha Sauda, which claims to have millions of members.
Yesterday, a spokesperson for the Dera took umbrage to Haryana Chief Minister ML Khattarstating that Ram Rahim would be present in court, suggesting it could cause chaos. The guru is given Z-plus security, reserved for the top reaches of VVIPs, and travels with a fleet of bullet-proof cars.
"Without holding any discussion with us, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has unfortunately made a statement that Guru ji (Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh) will come there (appear in court). It has led to a situation of confusion," Aditya Insan, the Dera spokesperson, said. "We have been receiving lakhs of calls from our followers. I came to know that 8-10 lakh people have reached (Panchkula) and an additional 15-20 lakh will also reach there," he alleged.
Ram Rahim's main campus is in Sirsa in Haryana, but his popularity traverses the border into many parts of Punjab. A stadium has been converted into a jail in Chandigarh to accommodate followers if they erupt in violence.
with thanks : NDTV : LINK
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