The Haryana elections approach, and Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim seeks parole once again before the polls. He has requested a 20-day parole ahead of the assembly elections scheduled for October 5. Political experts in Haryana emphasize that, despite his long imprisonment, he influences over 30 seats across four districts.
The Election Commission asks the Haryana government to clarify the urgency behind Ram Rahim’s parole request. Recently, he received a 21-day parole following his misdemeanor conviction.
Due to the election code of conduct, the state government forwards Ram Rahim’s request to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). The CEO seeks clarification on the emergency justification for granting parole and whether it is appropriate to release convicts during elections. The Haryana government has yet to respond.
Prison department officials note that applicants typically do not need to provide reasons for seeking parole, except in emergencies. Usually, a divisional commissioner approves these requests, but the upcoming assembly elections prompt the case to escalate to the CEO.
Currently, Ram Rahim remains in Sunaria Jail in Rohtak, serving a 20-year sentence for molesting two female disciples at the Sirsa ashram. He was released on parole for 21 days on August 13 and has obtained parole multiple times over the past seven years since his conviction.