New Delhi: As poll fever in the capital continues to rise, Dera Sacha Sauda, which was left lurching in the dark following the arrest and conviction of it’s chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim and several prominent leaders, are beginning to show signs of new political development. Of late, the Dera has been crisscrossing the three prominent Northern states of Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan to canvass support for the organization and buttress its image following the ugly developments two years back. The new development comes in the wake of reports pointing to various political parties trying to gain the support of the Dera followers.
Historically thought to be the silent supporters of BJP, the Dera ditched the national party for its ally SAD in the 2017 Punjab assembly polls. Before that in 2014, the group had thrown its weight behind Modi and SAD. Its united support base played a big role in giving BJP a clean sweep in Haryana, while Punjab still remained the Achilles’ heel.
With supporters numbering in millions, the Dera is getting the majority of political support which is crucial not just for its survival but also to keep itself relevant. And the leadership seems to be aware of it. “Various political parties have approached us, asking for our support. We haven’t given our assurance to anyone. We are hoping to leverage this opportunity to send out a message that our followers remain united and that any party that has our support is going to have an edge”, said a senior Dera functionary, on condition of anonymity.
But it’s an uphill task. Following the rout of SAD in 2017 polls, the Dera has constantly come under the scanner for its alleged role in the numerous sacrilege cases, which led to arrest of dozens of Dera supporters. While the new Congress govt. in Punjab might appear to be antithetical to any compromise with Dera, the murmurs have been going around of a possible covert agreement between the two. And it won’t be the first time that Dera Sauda has supported the Congress. In 2007 assembly polls, the Dera had thrown its weight behind the Congress, who eventually lost the elections.
“This is just rumors. As of now, we haven’t decided on anything. We will first consult the people and then only will be in a position to respond to speculations”, added the Dera functionary.
The group organized Naam charcha gatherings across 23 locations in the state of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and the National Capital of Delhi. The gathering at Dera Sacha Sauda at Khanjawala attracted almost 45000 people. The Dera also used the event to distribute books and Stationary to more than 1000 students and rations to hundreds of needy families.
It is a part of their ongoing plan to keep the scattered flock together in the run-up to the elections and use the unity as a bargaining chip. “United we stand. Divided we fall. Many parties want our support. But we can’t give them unless we have decided among ourselves first. These Naam Charcha gatherings will serve as an opportunity to make a united stand”, added another functionary.