Dera chief denies charges, appeals for peace

CHANDIGARH: Denying the murder and rape charges levelled against its chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, the Dera Sacha Sauda on Wednesday said it is wrong to pronounce anyone guilty before allegations are proved in a court.

Within hours of the CBI accusing Gurmeet Singh of being involved in two murder cases and a rape case, he appealed to his followers and sympathisers to maintain harmony.

"The followers should maintain peace because peace and love have always been our path. No one should take law in his hand and indulge in any irresponsible act," the statement quoted Gurmeet Singh as saying.

The statement said before the decision of the Court, no one can be declared guilty.

"The rumours being spread and the allegations being levelled are baseless and politically motivated," the statement said.

The Dera, it said, has full faith in the Constitution and the judicial process and to declare someone, as accused on the basis of allegations is "totally wrong".

Gurmeet Singh has been charged by the CBI as being involved in two murder cases of Dera manager Ranjit Singh and Sirsa-based journalist Ram Chander Chatterpatti and a case of alleged rape of a disciple.