Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh was released on a 30-day parole from Sunaria jail in Rohtak, Haryana, on Tuesday. This marks his second temporary release from prison this year. The self-styled godman, who is serving a 20-year sentence for the rape of two disciples and a life term for the murder of a journalist, walked out of the jail premises amid tight security arrangements.
Parole Details
The parole, granted under the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Act, 2022, allows him to be outside prison for 30 days. He is expected to head to the Dera Sacha Sauda headquarters in Sirsa. This is his second parole in 2023; earlier in February, he was granted a 40-day furlough.
Security Measures
Authorities have implemented stringent security protocols around the jail and along the route to Sirsa. A large contingent of police personnel has been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents. The Dera chief's supporters have gathered in large numbers, celebrating his release.
Gurmeet Ram Rahim was convicted in 2017 for the rape of two women followers. He was later convicted for the murder of journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati, who had been investigating his activities. Despite his imprisonment, he continues to wield significant influence over his followers.
The parole has drawn criticism from various quarters, with some questioning the frequent temporary releases granted to high-profile convicts. However, the Haryana government maintains that the parole is granted as per legal provisions.
