Why is Ram Rahim Out of Jail Again on Parole?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ram Rahim's recent release has sparked public debate.
- This is his third parole in 2023.
- Violent riots occurred post his conviction in 2017.
- Political influence plays a significant role in his frequent releases.
- Concerns from victims' families need to be addressed.
Chandigarh, Aug 5 (NationPress) The controversial leader of the Dera Sacha Sauda sect, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who has been convicted for serious crimes including rape and murder, has been released from his high-security prison in Rohtak, Haryana once again. This marks his third release this year and the 14th since his conviction in 2017.
This latest 40-day parole has been timed to coincide with his upcoming birthday on August 15. Previously, he was granted a 21-day furlough in April and a 30-day parole in January.
During this period, Ram Rahim will reside at his Sirsa dera, marking the third time he has stayed there since his conviction for sexual offenses.
In prior releases, he was restricted to staying at the Shah Satnam Ashram in Barnava, located in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, rather than in Sirsa.
His conviction on August 25, 2017, sparked violent riots in Panchkula and Sirsa, resulting in the deaths of 41 individuals and injuring over 260.
Political figures in Punjab and Haryana have historically supported the Dera Sacha Sauda chief, recognizing his influence over voter behavior among his followers.
Each time Ram Rahim is granted parole, Anshul Chhatrapati, the son of slain journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati, whose murder led to Ram Rahim's life sentence, has expressed his disapproval.
Currently, Ram Rahim is incarcerated at the high-security Sunaria jail, located approximately 250 km from Chandigarh.
Previously, the high court had denied a parole request made by Ram Rahim to attend the weddings of his foster daughters.
The self-proclaimed godman was sentenced to 20 years in prison in August 2017 for raping two women. In 2019, a special CBI court in Panchkula sentenced him and three others to life imprisonment for the murder of a journalist that occurred over 16 years ago.