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The rise of gurus like Rampal and Ram Rahim, many of whom are facing despicable charges of murder and rape, is often laid at the modest door of the gullible multitudes going to them for spiritual realisation. Tainted gurus prey upon the vulnerability of the masses seeking social parity, and a living god, who will have instant solutions to mitigate their sufferings. There is much to borrow from the repertoire of Hindu philosophy and the pantheon of gods. One guru appropriates Kabir, another Krishna. There is no clash of interest. The deceit is complete. The real creator, however, is the politician, who in collusion with a lithe administration allows them to raise empires to giddy heights, to later consolidate his vote bank which is the blight of Indian politics. This game is played over and over.
The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, apex organisation of Hindu monks, put Rampal on its list of fake sadhus after his fall. What about what went before it? The first violation starts with land encroachment to establish expansive deras. This can, and must be, stunted then and there. Though they are tax-exempt, a system should be evolved for the financial scrutiny of the running of these properties, much like NGOs and the corporates. The State must maintain a watchful eye on the goings-on at the opulent ashrams. The authorities must guard against the spawning of a quid pro quo culture, where cash or favour may be exchanged for a summary all-okay report.
The spiritual path is fraught with the perils of exploitation. The law has, admirably, taken due course. Rampal, Ram Rahim, Asaram, Nityananda are in the legal net. No distinction should be made between gurus churning mass salvation for the elite and the working class. Action ought to be taken, even if it ‘just’ involves a violation of environmental laws or grabbing of forest land. Faith is a deeply personal belief system. To save it from being bruised and abused, the State needs to be vigilant, without being overbearing. Nirvana may then be within ‘easy’ reach.