The controversial self-styled godman has approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court for a 21-day furlough to carry out various welfare activities outside the jail. He has cited the need to perform religious duties and carry out social services, such as tree plantation, drug de-addiction, and arranging marriages of poor girls. The court has previously directed the state to seek permission before considering Ram Rahim's parole or furlough requests, following objections from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
Dera Sacha Sauda: A Controversial Sect Led by a Convicted Godman
Dera Sacha Sauda is a spiritual organization headquartered in Sirsa, Haryana, India. Founded in 1948, it has a large following across North India and beyond. However, the sect has been embroiled in numerous controversies, including the conviction of its former leader, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, for rape and murder.
Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh: The Convicted Godman
Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh served as the head of Dera Sacha Sauda from 1990 to 2017. He was a flamboyant figure who claimed to possess divine powers. His followers revered him as a deity, often referring to him as "Pitaji" (father).
In 2017, Singh was convicted for the rape of two of his female followers and the murder of a journalist who had exposed his crimes. He was sentenced to life imprisonment and has been incarcerated in Sunaria Jail in Rohtak, Haryana, since then.
Recent Furlough Request
Recently, Singh approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court for a 21-day furlough to carry out various welfare activities. He cited the need to perform religious duties and engage in social services, such as tree plantation, drug de-addiction, and arranging marriages for poor girls.
However, the state government objected to the furlough request, citing security concerns and the possibility of unrest among those opposed to Singh. The court has directed the government to seek permission before considering Singh's parole or furlough requests.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Who is Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh?
He is the former head of Dera Sacha Sauda, convicted for rape and murder.
2. Why is Dera Sacha Sauda controversial?
It has been involved in allegations of sexual abuse, violence, and financial irregularities.
3. What is the current status of Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh?
He is serving a life sentence in prison.
4. Why did Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh request a furlough?
He claims to want to perform religious and social welfare activities.
5. Why do some people object to Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh's furlough request?
They fear it could lead to unrest and security concerns.
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