News In Brief

Indian guru in Oregon faces growing government concern

Rep. James Weaver (D) of Oregon has announced plans to hold two days of hearings into the business activities of followers of the Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, whose settlement here has stirred tensions among local residents. The hearings will look into mining claims and grazing on land managed by the federal government.

Meanwhile, Rep. Bob Smith (R), also of Oregon, said he has asked the Justice Department to increase its staff in Oregon to investigate allegations of immigration violations involving the guru and his disciples, many of whom are reportedly homeless people bused in from other states.

And in Salem, state Sen. Dell Isham called on Gov. Vic Atiyeh to demand the deportation of the guru to India.