Rape Convict Ram Rahim, Serving 20-Year Sentence, Granted 40-Day Parole For 15th Time -Here’s Why

The gates of Sunaria jail in Haryana opened on Monday morning, but the decision behind it has once again drawn public attention. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, the controversial head of Dera Sacha Sauda and a convict in a rape case, stepped out on a 40-day parole-marking yet another temporary release since his conviction in 2017.

This latest parole allows Ram Rahim to stay at the Dera's Sirsa headquarters for the entire duration, where preparations are already underway for a major religious observance later this month.

Parole Linked to Religious Calendar

According to information available from media reports, this is the 15th time Ram Rahim has been granted parole since his sentencing. The current release coincides with the birth anniversary of Shah Satnam Maharaj, the second spiritual successor of the Dera Sacha Sauda sect. The occasion, observed on January 25, is traditionally marked by weeks of religious gatherings, including discourses and a large community meal at the Sirsa campus.

While Ram Rahim's presence during these events has previously attracted criticism, his legal team maintains that the parole aligns with existing rules and procedures.

Legal Provisions and Safeguards

Addressing concerns over repeated paroles, Ram Rahim's counsel said that parole is not a special privilege but a legal provision available to all eligible prisoners. Under state prison rules, a convict may be granted up to 70 days of parole and 21 days of furlough annually, subject to eligibility. The current 40-day parole, the lawyer said, falls well within this limit.

The lawyer further clarified that such decisions are not taken by courts but by the Sentence Review Board, which evaluates applications based on several criteria. These include the inmate's behavior during incarceration, adherence to prison discipline, and the perceived potential for rehabilitation.

There is also a mandatory cooling-off period of six months between two paroles. Authorities may deny parole if the release is considered a risk to public order or safety. The seriousness of the crime is one of several factors assessed during the review process.

Despite assurances from the legal side, Ram Rahim's repeated paroles continue to spark debate, particularly due to his high public profile and the nature of his conviction. For now, however, the law has allowed him another temporary return to Sirsa-under watchful eyes and renewed scrutiny.