Backchannel parleys on with Rampal

Hectic backchannel parleys continued between the Haryana government and the Satlok Ashram authorities on Sunday to avoid a confrontation between the police and supporters of ashram head Sant Rampal, who has been directed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court to appear in court on Monday in a contempt case. With just hours to go for the self-styled godman to present himself in court, the State administration sent eminent social activists to make the godman and his associates see reason and avoid a clash with the Haryana police and Central force personnel. It was on Nov. 5 that the High Court issued an NBW against Rampal, and when he did not appear before the court on Nov. 10, the court directed that he be produced by Nov. 17 or else the State Home Secretary and Director-General of Police should appear in court. Though a doctor from the Apollo Hospitals attending on Rampal, declared him fit to travel and appear in court, the ashram authorities said they have sent his medical certificate to seek exemption from appearance.