India police probe “Godman” over alleged castration of 400 followers

Indian police are investigating a popular self-styled godman for allegedly encouraging 400 followers to undergo castrations at his ashram so they could get closer to God. The country’s top crime fighting agency has registered a case against Gurmeet Ram Rahim, known as the “guru in bling” for his penchant for garish clothes and jewels, over the operations in the country’s north. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said in a statement Wednesday Rahim is being investigated for criminal intimidation and causing grievous bodily harm, saying 400 castrations were allegedly carried out.

They were told that only those who get castrated will be able to meet God.

Hans Raj Chauhan’s lawyer

The guru, who heads the Dera Sacha Sauda organisation based in Haryana state, is already facing trial for conspiracy over the murder of a journalist in 2002 along with claims of sexually exploiting female followers. The latest case was filed after one of his devotees, Hans Raj Chauhan, lodged a complaint in court alleging he was manipulated into having the “painful” operation at the ashram.

Asia-Pacific Gurmeet Ram Rahim