Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who heads the Dera Saca Sauda sect in India, was convicted on Friday, in a decade old rape case.

The controversial chief was accused of raping two of his sadhvis (women follower) in Sirsa, Haryana, where the Dera headquarters are based.

Ram Rahim, who identifies himself as a social reformer, reportedly broke down in court while the special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) judge read out the quantum of his sentence.

His defence reportly urged the judge to take a lenient stand owing to his weak health and his pro-human work, while the CBI in its argument asked for the maximum punishment.

After hearing both the arguments, the judge ruled in favour of the victim.

Meanwhile, fresh clashes were reported in Sirsa, where Dera supporters torched at least two vehicles.

Earlier on Friday, at least 30 people died following clashes between law enforcers and Ram Rahim's supporters.

Incidents of arson were also reported as a train station was torched by the angry mob.

As the situation spiraled out of order, it affected millions, as several trains, both local and long-distance, were called off.

Violence also spread like wildfire in other states too.

Parts of Rajasthan, where the Dera Chief was born, protested the decision, while certain places in Uttar Pradesh, Indian's largest state, joined force with the agitators.  

Following the carnage, the Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal Khattar, faced backlash from the opposition.

While Khattar was slammed for the incompetence in managing the situation efficiently, the Indian Prime Minister too received barbs for his lack of vision

The incumbent government in Haryana was also accused of condoning the Godman's mistake and treat him like a celebrity.

Controversy erupted in India after several local news channel aired images and footage of the convict enjoying VIP security.