After filing a petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has been granted a 21-day furlough. During this temporary release period, Singh will stay at the Dera's ashram in Uttar Pradesh. The high court had previously directed the Haryana government to not grant further parole to Singh without their permission.
Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Granted 21-Day Furlough: Background and Top FAQs
Background
Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh is the former head of the Dera Sacha Sauda, a sect with millions of followers in India. In 2017, he was convicted of rape and murder and sentenced to 20 years in prison.
After his imprisonment, Singh had been granted regular paroles, sparking protests and concerns. In 2021, the Punjab and Haryana High Court ruled that the Haryana government could not grant paroles to Singh without its permission.
Current Furlough
On August 24, 2023, the Punjab and Haryana High Court granted Singh a 21-day furlough. This temporary release period will allow Singh to stay at the Dera's ashram in Uttar Pradesh.
The court's decision came after Singh filed a petition arguing that he needed to attend to his mother's serious illness.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why was Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh granted furlough?
Singh was granted furlough to attend to his mother's serious illness.
2. How long is the furlough period?
The furlough period is 21 days.
3. Where will Singh stay during the furlough?
Singh will stay at the Dera's ashram in Uttar Pradesh.
4. Did the court grant Singh permission to be released on parole?
No, the court only granted Singh furlough. Parole is a temporary release from prison, while furlough is a temporary leave of absence.
5. What are the concerns about Singh's release?
Concerns about Singh's release include the potential for violence and unrest among his followers and the possibility that he could interfere with the ongoing investigations into his crimes.
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