Opposition and victim’s kin criticize Ram Rahim’s parole release

Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Granted 40-Day Parole

Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, chief of Dera Sacha Sauda, walked out of Sunaria jail in Rohtak on Monday. He was granted a 40-day parole, marking his 15th release since 2020. The victim’s family and the Opposition criticized the government for this decision.

Details of the Parole

Singh is serving a 20-year sentence for raping two of his disciples. He received the 40-day parole on Sunday to celebrate the birth anniversary of Shah Satnam Ji Maharaj, the second chief of Dera Sacha Sauda, on January 25. To date, he has spent 366 days out of jail during his incarceration.

Concerns Raised by Victims’ Families

His frequent releases have raised concerns among the families of the victims and political leaders. They argue that his parole poses a threat to the victims. Anshul Chhatarpati, son of slain journalist Ram Chander Chhatarpati, called the situation unfortunate. He stated that Singh’s release creates a life threat to the victims involved in the cases.

Political Reactions

Chhatarpati compared Singh’s case to that of former UP BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar, noting that Singh is accused in several cases, some still under trial. Senior Congress MLA Geeta Bhukkal questioned the ease with which Singh receives parole, contrasting it with the stricter conditions for others seeking parole.

Comparisons with Other Cases

MPs John Brittas and Manoj Jha highlighted the difference between Singh’s releases and the Supreme Court’s refusal to grant bail to activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, who have been in jail for over five years. Anish Gawande, a spokesperson for the Nationalist Congress Party, pointed out the disparity in rights between Singh and Khalid.

Government’s Defense

Dera spokesperson Jitender Khurana stated that the 40-day parole was granted by the state’s “competent authority” as part of an inmate’s rights. He explained that every inmate can take 70 days of parole and 21 days of furlough each year. Singh has been granted 40 days of parole out of the 70 available. He will remain at the Dera headquarters in Sirsa during this period.