Deras (Cults) issue in Punjab – Causes and Consequences
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Date
2020
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Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
Abstract
The present study was conducted in Ludhiana and Jalandhar districts to analyze the Deras (cults) issue in Punjab and their causes and consequences with the following objectives : (i) to assess the socio-economic characteristic of Dera followers (ii) to identify the factors responsible for rising Deras in the state (iii) to examine the implications of emergence of Deras in Punjabi Society. The random sample technique was used foe sample selection. Based on 150 respondents, consisting Dera followers of the two big Deras of Punjab i.e DSS, Sirsa and DJJS, Nurmahal from Ludhiana and Jalandhar districts, study led to conclusion that more than half of the respondents were between 40 to 60 years of age, mostly married and females. Nearly half of the respondents (48.67%) belonged to schedule caste and 35 per cent of the respondents were housewives. About 4500 followers of DJJS, Numahal and 14000 from DSS, Sirsa were providing various services in the Deras. Total followers of DJJS, Numahal were estimated upto 10 lacs whereas DSS, Sirsa is having more than 46 lacs followers. The study highlights the factors of joining Deras, results revealed that 68.67 per cent of the respondents opined that insecurity in life was prime factor of joining the Deras. Further less reputation in village (44.67%), segregation (38%) and dominance of some castes (42%) in village are important reasons for joining Dera. Disturbance of smooth life in village (75.33%), rising conflict (49.33%) and strengthening of caste lines (29%) etc were the major implications of the Deras. However, most respondents felt satisfied and more secure after joining Deras.