BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj defends Ram Rahim, says Dera chief’s conviction ‘conspiracy to malign Indian culture’

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sakshi Maharaj on Friday made a controversial statement after violent clashes broke out following conviction of Dera Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a 15-year-old rape case by a special CBI court in Panchkula.

While talking about the violent protests in Haryana, Punjab and several other places by Dera supporters and followers, he said “One person alleging sexual exploitation but crores stand with him today, why those crores of people are not being heard?”

The BJP MP also attacked the court saying “If even bigger incidents take place, court will also be responsible not just Dera people.”

It is a conspiracy to defame the Indian culture, he further added.

Yojnabaddh tareeke se Bhartiya sanskriti ko badnaam karne ka shadyantra hai: Sakshi Maharaj,BJP MP #RamRahimVerdict pic.twitter.com/rk32eWeTuA

— ANI (@ANI) August 25, 2017

ALSO READ | Ram Rahim conviction: 30 killed, over 250 injured in violence by Dera supporters; PM Modi condemns violence

Massive violence erupted in Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, and Chandigarh after a CBI Court in Panchkula convicted Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. Soon after the news of his conviction came out, his supporters started protesting and pelting stones on police and security forces.

At least 30 people were killed and over 250 injured in violent clashes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Ministers of Punjab and Haryana have appealed people to maintain peace and law & order in the states.

ALSO READ | Ram Rahim verdict: HC says attach Dera assets to compensate for losses