Convicted Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has once again been granted a 30-day parole, reigniting political and public debate over the repeated temporary release of the controversial religious leader. Ram Rahim walked out of Sunaria jail in Haryana’s Rohtak district under tight police security and proceeded to the Dera headquarters in Sirsa, where he is expected to stay during the parole period.
The parole marks yet another temporary release for the Dera chief, who has been serving a 20-year prison sentence since 2017 after being convicted in rape cases involving two women disciples. Apart from the rape conviction, he is also serving a life sentence in the murder case of journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati.
According to officials, this is the 16th time since 2020 that Ram Rahim has been granted either parole or furlough. Earlier in January 2026, he was released on a 40-day parole. His repeated releases have consistently drawn criticism from opposition parties, social activists, and women’s rights groups.
Authorities said the parole was granted under legal provisions applicable to prisoners and that all procedures were followed before approval. Security has been tightened in Sirsa and nearby districts to prevent any untoward incidents during his stay outside jail.
Dera Sacha Sauda has a large following across Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and several other northern states. The organisation continues to wield considerable social and political influence, particularly in rural areas. Because of this influence, every parole granted to Ram Rahim becomes a matter of intense political discussion.
Opposition leaders have questioned why a convict in serious criminal cases continues to receive parole so frequently. Critics argue that repeated temporary releases create the perception of preferential treatment. Some political parties have also accused the Haryana government of extending indirect support due to the Dera’s influence over a large voter base.
Women’s rights activists and legal experts have also raised concerns over the impact such decisions may have on public confidence in the justice system. They argue that repeated parole for a person convicted of rape and murder could send a negative message regarding accountability and victim justice.
Supporters of Ram Rahim, however, maintain that he is only being granted rights available under prison rules. According to followers of the Dera, he spends his parole period engaging in spiritual activities and interacting with devotees. Large numbers of followers are expected to gather at the Sirsa headquarters during his stay.
The administration remains cautious because of past incidents linked to Ram Rahim’s conviction. In 2017, after a special CBI court convicted him in the rape cases, widespread violence erupted in parts of Haryana and Punjab. Several people lost their lives, and public property worth crores was damaged during the unrest. Since then, authorities have remained highly alert whenever he is granted parole.
Political analysts believe Ram Rahim’s influence still matters in regional politics, especially in Haryana and Punjab. His supporters are spread across several constituencies, making his parole politically sensitive ahead of any electoral developments.
