Charges in rape case pronounced against Dera chief

Ambala, Sep 6 (UNI) Charges framed against Dera Sacha Sauda Chief Gurmit Ram Rahim in a case of rape were pronounced by the special CBI judge A K Verma in his presence here today.

The Dera Chief is facing allegations of rape and threatening Dera sadhvis under section 376 and 506 IPC. The CBI had already filed a charge sheet against him alleging that the Dera chief sexually exploited the sadhvis working in his Dera.

Two sadhvis had moved the Punjab and Haryana High court with a complaint that the Dera chief sexually exploited them and compelled them to submit to his wishes.

The high court there upon had ordered the CBI inquiry while disposing off the complaint of the sadhvis.

The CBI had earlier argued in detail on the sexual exploitation of sadhvis and had pleaded that there were sufficient evidences and witnesses against the Dera chief to prosecute him and frame charges against him.

The statement of Khatta Singh, former driver of the Dera chief, had also raised several allegations against the Dera chief for his alleged involvement in sexually exploiting the Dera sadhvis.

Dera chief is facing murder charges in another case for which the next date was fixed for October four.

Meanwhile, the district administration did not allow the Dera chief to address his followers, who had gathered in thousands at the sprawling Gandhi Grounds Ambala Cantonment today.

He was whisked away after completion of court proceedings.

The Dera chief had personally attended the special CBI court today. He did not attend the court thrice on grounds of health reasons and had sought exemption.

UNI XC MA GL RK1932