Gurmeet Ram Rahim's Controversial Parole: Released Just Days Before Haryana Elections, Sparking Political Outrage!

In a controversial move, the Haryana government has granted parole to Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, the leader of the Dera Sacha Sauda sect, just three days before the state assembly elections. Ram Rahim was released on a 20-day parole on Wednesday and exited Rohtak jail at 6:30 AM. The approval for his release came from the Chief Secretary's office, with Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Anurag Rastogi forwarding the file for further action to DGP (Prisons) Muhammad Akil after it had been approved by the government.

This marks the second time in a month that Ram Rahim has been released from jail, raising concerns among opposition parties. The Congress party sent a complaint to the Election Commission (EC) and Haryana's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Pankaj Agarwal, arguing that Ram Rahim's release could influence voters just ahead of the elections. They labeled the parole as a violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

On the preceding Friday, the prison department had communicated with the Haryana EC through its CEO regarding the decision on Ram Rahim's parole request. The CEO asked the Additional Chief Secretary to explain the circumstances necessitating parole, given the Model Code was in effect.

After receiving the necessary approvals, the CEO informed the state government that it could consider Ram Rahim's release. His parole request came just a month after he completed a prior period in jail, where he is serving sentences for the rape of two disciples and the murder of journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati.

Historically, Ram Rahim has been granted parole during significant occasions or politically charged times. The Dera Sacha Sauda also has a political wing, and its support for specific candidates or parties is considered influential in shaping voting patterns in the region. As the elections approach, the implications of Ram Rahim's parole are being closely scrutinized.