The Haryana Government on Saturday adopted a carrot-and-stick policy towards controversial preacher Sant Rampal who has been directed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court to appear before it on Monday in a contempt case. As he is suspected to be holed up in his Satlok Ashram at Barwala in Hisar district and his followers are resisting arrest, the authorities on Saturday disconnected power and water supply to the ashram.
Rampal is facing trial in a murder case as his supporters opened fire on Rohtak villagers in 2006, killing one and injuring several.
To avoid a confrontation with his supporters, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar appealed to him to uphold the dignity of the judicial process and submit himself to the process of law.
He also appealed to the followers of Rampal to cooperate in fulfilling the directions of the court. “In a democratic set up, one must give utmost priority to uphold the dignity of the judicial system,” he said.
The High Court had on November 10 directed the Haryana Director General of Police and the Home Secretary to produce Rampal before it on November 17 or be themselves present on the day. The directive came after the police failed to produce him in court, despite non-bailable warrants issued against him on Nov. 5.
Rampal’s supporters, in thousands, are present within and outside the Ashram, declaring that they would not allow police to arrest him.
For its part, the State administration has also made adequate arrangements to bring the godman out forcibly if he fails to take cognisance of the appeal and submit himself before the High Court.
The Director-General of Police S.N. Vashisht has been personally supervising the deployment of personnel all around the Ashram. He is being assisted by at least 16 other IPS officers. About 30 companies of Haryana Police and paramilitary forces are on standby for any action. About 1,000 commandoes of State Police have also been stationed in Hisar.
Besides cutting off power and water supply to the ashram, the State administration has also cut off the supply of milk, vegetables, groceries and all other essential items. About 14 check points have been set up all around the ashram to prevent the arrival of more supporters of the preacher to the venue.
