BJP distances itself from Sakshi Maharaj's remark supporting Dera chief

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday distanced itself from its party MP Sakshi Maharaj's controversial statement supporting Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh.

Speaking to ANI, BJP leader Kailash Vijaywargiya said that the party does not support Maharaj's stance and that of it was not right to question the judicial system.

"I don't support his statement. It was his personal view. I think it is not right to question the judicial system," he said.

BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj on Friday came out in support of Gurmeet Ram Rahim after the Dera Sacha Sauda chief was convicted in a rape case by a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Panchkula.

"Crores of people follow him (Gurmeet Ram Rahim). Why are we not listening to them? Why are we listening to one person (the victim). Gurmeet Ram Rahim is a noble soul. This is a conspiracy to defame Indian culture and the holy people. If there is further violence, the courts will be responsible," Maharaj had said.

At least 29 people were killed, including two women and a child, and more than 250 injured as violence erupted in Haryana and Punjab after the Dera Sacha Sauda chief was convicted in the rape case.

The quantum of punishment will be pronounced on August 28.

After being convicted, the Dera Sacha Sauda chief was taken to Rohtak by helicopter.