After a CBI court in Panchkula held self-styled godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh guilty in a rape case that was registered on the basis of an anonymous written complaint in 2002 that he had sexually exploited two female followers, violence erupted across the states of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, killing at least 28 people and injuring 250 others.

Hailing the verdict, Bollywood actors, Anupam Kher, Raveena Tandon, among others have praised the court’s judgement against the Dera Sacha Sauda chief.

Anupam Kher tweeted, “Violence is what #GurmeetRamRahimSingh seems to have taught his followers. This is nonsense and government needs to use full force to stop it now.”

Raveena wrote, “The way the followers are reacting, rioting, itself proves what the cult was all about... Saddened to see such shameful goons on the loose.”

Actor Bhumi Pednekar tweeted, “I hope my friends and family are all safe in Chandigarh. It’s a very sad state of affairs. Be safe.”

Actor Amyra Dastur tweeted, “A big win for the people, especially the daughters of India #RamRahimVerdict. But can’t believe the poor measures that have been taken to prevent such a horrific mob outburst from happening!”