The legal and political circles of Haryana are closely watching the High Court today as it takes up the plea of jailed Dera chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. The controversial leader, currently lodged in Sunaria Jail, Rohtak, is seeking another period of parole, citing personal reasons.
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Court’s Jurisdiction: In a significant shift from earlier months, the High Court recently clarified that the state government is competent to decide on parole, provided it follows the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners Act, 2022. However, the court continues to monitor these requests due to petitions filed by the SGPC challenging the frequency of his releases.
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Political Sensitivity: The Dera Sacha Sauda holds considerable influence in at least 25 to 30 assembly seats in districts like Sirsa, Fatehabad, Hisar, and Kurukshetra. Historically, the Dera’s political wing has issued voting “directions” to its followers, making Ram Rahim’s presence or absence during the campaign a critical factor for all major parties.
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Opposing Voices: Rival groups and the families of victims have once again approached the Election Commission, arguing that granting parole during the Model Code of Conduct would violate the principle of a “level playing field.” They allege that the frequent releases are a “mockery of the law.”
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Past Record: If granted, this would be the 15th time the Dera chief has been released on parole or furlough since his conviction in 2017. Most recently, he was out on a 21-day furlough in August, which ended just before his 58th birthday.
