Haryana: Dera Sacha Sauda marks its 74th foundation year

BATHINDA/JIND: Dera Sacha Sauda followers organised a congregation at the Sirsa-based sect’s biggest branch at Salabatpura village in Bathinda district on Sunday on the occasion of its 74th foundation year. A large number of dera followers attended the congregation from various parts of the state.
Following the wishes of dera head Gurmeet Ram Rahim, who is in jail, tricycles were given to the physically disabled persons, keys of small houses were given to the needy people, ration was distributed among 2,029 families and 529 bird feeders were distributed to save the birds.
First head of dera Shah Mastana had founded the dera 74 years ago on April 29, 1948.
At Jind, Dera Sacha Sauda followers held a programme for the first time after Gurmeet was convicted and sent in jail in connection with rape and murder cases. Thousands of devotees, including women, from across the state reached Jind to take part in the event.
Krishan Middha, a BJP MLA from Jind segment, and some other BJP leaders, including deputy speaker Ranbir Gangva’s brother, also attended the event. Replying to a query, DSS key members said their political wing will decide whom to support in coming urban local bodies and panchayat elections.
As many as 3,229 ration kits were distributed among destitute families and 729 bird feeders were distributed to save the birds.