New Delhi: Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim is out of jail once again and has been granted furlough for 21 days. Let us tell you, till August 2026, he has come out of jail through parole or furlough a total of 17 times since 2020. Questions are often raised regarding this temporary release that is granted again and again. In such a situation, it is important to understand what is the difference between parole and furlough and how a prisoner gets leave under both of them.

What is parole?

Parole is a system in which a convicted prisoner is allowed to stay out of jail for some time before the completion of his sentence. Generally, there may be some special circumstance or human reason behind this. For example, parole can be granted due to illness, death of a close family member or some other important work.

During parole, the prisoner has to follow many prescribed conditions. At the same time, after the end of the leave period, he has to return to jail. In Haryana also, the rules and eligibility conditions to parole are fixed. Let us tell you that generally the time spent on parole is not included in the sentence period.

What is furlough?

Furlough is also a temporary leave from jail, but its purpose is different from parole. There is a provision of furlough to give eligible prisoners serving long sentences the opportunity to maintain contact with family and spend some time outside jail. It is not necessary for there to be any special emergency for furlough. However, the prisoner has to fulfill the relevant terms and conditions. The time spent out of jail during furlough is included in the period of sentence.

How did Ram Rahim get leave so many times?

Ram Rahim was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2017 for raping two nuns. Since getting temporary release for the first time in October 2020, he has been out of jail on parole and furlough several times. On different occasions he has got leave ranging from 21 to 50 days. At the same time, many of his releases have been discussed at the political and social level due to them being around the election time. However, parole or furlough is not a permanent release. Every time the approval of the competent authority and following the prescribed rules is necessary.