India guru rape case: 23 die in unrest as Ram Rahim Singh convicted

[TomSea]

India guru rape case: 23 die in unrest as Ram Rahim Singh convicted

At least 23 people have been killed in violent protests over the rape conviction of a popular religious leader in north India.

The victims are believed to be Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh's followers. Angry supporters rampaged through Panchkula town, near Chandigarh.

About 2,500 of Singh's followers have been arrested, police said.

Earlier, his devotees smashed cars and set media vans alight, saying he was innocent.

Continued: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-41049705

Who is Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh?



Controversial leader of the Dera Sacha Sauda sect, which claims to have 60 million followers around the world

Took over the sect - which describes itself as "a non-profit social welfare and spiritual organisation" - when he was 23

Performs at rock concerts, acts in films and even has his own line of food products
Known as "rockstar baba" and "guru of bling" because of his shiny, colourful clothes

Continued: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-41049705