India’s "Guru of Bling" gets 20-year jail sentence

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>A high-profile and controversial Indian guru, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who was convicted of rape on Friday, has been sentenced to 20 years in jail and fined 3 million Indian rupees (about $46,000).

>The so-called "godman" was ordered to serve 10 years rigorous imprisonment each for raping two of his female followers in 2002. The court has said the sentences will run consecutively, and not concurrently, which means he will have to spend a total of 20 years behind bars.

>Known as the "Guru of Bling" and "Rockstar Baba" for his flashy clothes and lifestyle, the millionaire reportedly broke down and asked forgiveness when the judge announced the sentence.

>The victims have decided to ask a higher court to demand a tougher punishment. The guru's lawyers, who asked for a lighter sentence in view of his "humanitarian" work, will also challenge the verdict.

>Rape convicts in India face a minimum of seven years jail and a maximum of life term. In rare cases, like the December 2012 gang rape of a medical student that sparked outrage worldwide, death sentences are also handed out.
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