Dera Sacha Sauda chief case: Fearing backlash lawyers in Panchkula shun courts; Punjab, Haryana near shutdown

Punjab and Haryana have been put on alert ahead of the verdict on August 25 in a rape case against Sirsa-based Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh.  Hospitals in Panchkula and Chandigarh have been put on alert as the authorities fear a backlash from Dera supporters if the verdict goes against Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. 

According to Zee News report, based on sources, more than 65 thousand supporters of Dera Chief had already reached Panchkula till Wednesday afternoon. This number could drastically go up on the day of the verdict, suggest reports.

Fearing backlash from Ram Rahim's supporters, lawyers at Panchkula have decided not to attend courts till August 25. Panchkula Public School Associations have declared holidays in their schools for three days.

Police have managed to stop Ram Rahim's supporters near Tau Devi Lal Stadium, but the number has been steadily increasing, reports Zee News.

Thousands of policemen and paramilitary troops have been posted in the Punjab and Haryana. 

Cricket Stadium at Sector 16 in Chandigarh will serve as a temporary jail to keep miscreants. 

Zee News reports that Punjab DGP Suresh Arora has informed officials that petrol bombs and sharp weapons are being collected by supporters of Dera Sacha Sauda. All concerned have been asked to take all steps to maintain peace and ensure the safety of residents.  

Police presence has been increased in areas leading to the court in Panchkula.