Granthi seeks release of dera chief, arrested

Bathinda, May 20

A priest at a gurdwara in Bir Talab village in Bathinda district “offered prayers” for the release of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim. In a video gone viral on social media platforms, the granthi can be seen doing an ‘ardas’ for a Dalit chief minister in the state and release of the jailed dera chief.

After a complaint was given by advocate Harpal Singh Khara and other lawyers to the Bathinda SSP against the priest for making a “politically-motivated ardas” which could vitiate the atmosphere in the state, the police arrested the priest.

SSP Bhupinderjit Singh Virk said, “After getting a complaint, we have arrested the priest and booked him under Section 295A of the IPC. We are investigating the matter and further action will be taken based on our findings. There are certain unscrupulous elements who are trying to disturb peace. Their role is being probed thoroughly.” Meanwhile, a letter issued by Kaushal Kumar, Director, National Commission for Scheduled Castes, has sought an action taken report in the matter. The commission has decided to investigate the matter under powers conferred upon it under Article 338 of the Constitution. — TNS