Haryana Govt’s Act helps rape convict Ram Rahim get repeated parole
The Haryana government’s recent legislation, the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Act, 2022, has been making headlines for its provisions that allow convicted prisoners to be released on parole for a significant period. One of the most notable beneficiaries of this law is rape convict Ram Rahim, who has been granted repeated parole since his conviction in 2017. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the Act and how it has enabled Ram Rahim to secure repeated parole.
The Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Act, 2022, is a legislation aimed at providing temporary release to prisoners who have demonstrated good conduct during their imprisonment. The law allows convicted prisoners to be released for a period of 10 weeks each year, providing them with an opportunity to reintegrate into society and reconnect with their families. Additionally, the law also provides for the release of ‘hardcore convicted prisoners’ who have served at least five years of their sentence, including two years under trial.
Ram Rahim, the self-styled godman and leader of the Dera Sacha Sauda sect, was convicted of rape in 2017 and has been serving his sentence in a Haryana prison. Despite being a high-profile convict, Ram Rahim has been able to secure repeated parole under the provisions of the new law. Since he has been in jail since 2017, he qualifies for the provision that allows ‘hardcore convicted prisoners’ to receive regular parole.
The Haryana government’s decision to introduce this legislation has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the motives behind the law. Critics argue that the law is too lenient and provides undue benefits to convicts like Ram Rahim, who have been found guilty of heinous crimes. The fact that Ram Rahim has been granted repeated parole has sparked outrage among the public, with many demanding that he be kept behind bars for the entirety of his sentence.
The provisions of the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Act, 2022, have also raised concerns about the potential risks of releasing convicted prisoners on parole. While the law aims to provide an opportunity for prisoners to reintegrate into society, it also poses a risk of reoffending. In the case of Ram Rahim, his release on parole has sparked fears of potential disturbances and law and order issues, given his large following and the controversy surrounding his conviction.
The Haryana government has defended the legislation, stating that it is aimed at providing a chance for prisoners to reform and reintegrate into society. The government has also argued that the law is not specific to Ram Rahim and applies to all prisoners who meet the eligibility criteria. However, the fact that Ram Rahim has been granted repeated parole under the provisions of the law has raised questions about the government’s intentions and the potential for favoritism.
In conclusion, the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Act, 2022, has provided a window of opportunity for convicted prisoners like Ram Rahim to secure repeated parole. While the law aims to provide an opportunity for prisoners to reintegrate into society, it has also raised concerns about the potential risks of releasing convicts on parole. The fact that Ram Rahim has been granted repeated parole has sparked outrage among the public, and the Haryana government must address these concerns and ensure that the law is not misused to favor high-profile convicts.
The case of Ram Rahim highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to prisoner reform and rehabilitation. While providing opportunities for prisoners to reintegrate into society is essential, it is equally important to ensure that the rights of victims and their families are protected. The Haryana government must strike a balance between providing a chance for prisoners to reform and ensuring that justice is served.
As the debate surrounding the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Act, 2022, continues, it is essential to consider the implications of the law on the justice system and society as a whole. The case of Ram Rahim serves as a reminder that the rights of victims and their families must be protected, and that the law must be applied fairly and without favoritism.
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