Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has been granted a 20-day parole, a decision made public by official sources. This event comes just ahead of the assembly elections scheduled in Haryana on October 5. Rohtak Division Commissioner Sanjeev Verma approved Ram Rahim Singh’s parole request. However, the Election Commission of India has imposed a series of restrictions on the convicted individual, who is currently serving a sentence for rape, to ensure the fair conduct of the upcoming elections.
Conditions Imposed During Parole
The Election Commission has mandated that Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh must abide by specific conditions during his parole period. These conditions include:
- A ban on entering Haryana.
- Prohibition from giving speeches.
- Restrictions on engaging in any political activities.
The Chief Electoral Officer of Haryana confirmed these conditions in a communication to the Additional Chief Secretary of the Jail Department. Additionally, a letter dated September 30 cited that the administration had considered Singh’s request for parole due to significant and urgent personal reasons.
Political Controversy Surrounding Parole
The granting of parole to Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has sparked controversy, particularly from the Haryana Congress party. The Congress has formally voiced its objections, indicating that Singh’s substantial following could potentially sway the election results. In their correspondence to the Election Commission, they highlighted the need for careful consideration of Ram Rahim’s history and the implications of his release during a politically sensitive period.
Historical Context
This is not the first time Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has been granted temporary release from prison. He previously enjoyed a furlough period in August this year, which lasted for 21 days. He also received a three-week furlough starting February 7, 2022, shortly before the Punjab Assembly elections. This pattern of granting parole and furlough raises questions about the impact of such decisions on the electoral process and governance.
Staying Arrangements During Parole
During his 20-day parole, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has opted to stay in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh. This location choice is notable, given the proximity to Haryana and the demographics of his followers. The effectiveness of the imposed restrictions will be closely monitored to ensure compliance and to maintain the integrity of the upcoming elections.
| Parole Details | Condition |
|---|---|
| Duration | 20 Days |
| Approval Authority | Rohtak Division Commissioner, Sanjeev Verma |
| Location During Parole | Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh |
| Political Influence Concern | Large following may affect election outcomes |
In conclusion, the release of Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh on parole is under scrutiny as it coincides with crucial electoral events in Haryana. The restrictions placed upon him highlight the balancing act the Election Commission must perform to uphold the democratic process while considering individual rights. The political implications of his parole will likely resonate well beyond the immediate context of the assembly elections.
