Dera Violence: Australia issues advisory for citizens travelling to India

Melbourne: Keeping in view the spreading violence across India following the conviction of Dera Sacha Sauda Chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a 15-year-old rape case, Australia on Friday issued a safety advisory for its citizen travelling to the country.

Thousands of followers of the Dera chief, who was convicted by a Special CBI court in a rape case earlier in the day on Friday, resorted to violence setting on fire over 150 vehicles, buildings and railway stations.

The advisory, which has been issued by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), warned the India-bound travellers to keep away from large gatherings and abide by the instructions of the local authorities.

Also Read: Dera Chief Conviction: After Panchkula, Sirsa, will Rohtak face violence?

"Local transport has been significantly disrupted with a number of roads closed and rail services cancelled," the advisory said.

"On 25 August 2017, incidents of violence were reported in parts of the states of Haryana (particularly in Sirsa and Panchkula), and Punjab, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh, following the conviction of the leader of the Dera Sacha Sauda spiritual organisation, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh," it said.

"High alerts and a ban on unauthorised gatherings are in place in these areas until 30 August 2017. Avoid large gatherings as they could become violent. Mobile internet services in Chandigarh have been suspended. Monitor the media for developments that may affect your safety and security", it added.