India Tomorrow News Desk
NEW DELHI: Haryana is gearing up for its assembly elections on October 5, but a new factor has emerged in the political landscape – Dera Sacha Sauda Chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who was granted a 20-day parole just days before the polls. Ram Rahim, a convicted rapist and murderer, walked out of Sunaria jail in Rohtak under tight security on Wednesday and will stay at the Dera ashram in Barnawa, Uttar Pradesh, during his parole period.
While the Nayab Singh Saini led BJP government Haryana has barred Ram Rahim from participating in election-related activities or making public speeches, his release has already stirred controversy. This is not the first time his temporary release has coincided with elections in Haryana or neighbouring states. Singh has previously been granted paroles and furloughs near election dates, including the Punjab Assembly polls in 2022. His latest release comes amidst heightened political activity, and while he is officially prohibited from involvement in the elections, his mere presence in Barnawa could indirectly influence voter behaviour.
Opposition parties have raised concerns, alleging that the BJP is trying to sway the Dera’s massive following, which could influence electoral outcomes. In a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, the Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee voiced its apprehension over the “breaking news that parole will be granted.” The Congress urged the Election Commission to block the parole, arguing that Singh’s release at this time would be a violation of the Model Code of Conduct, which is in place to ensure free and fair elections. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has been granted parole for the 10th time in two years.
The Opposition and critics point out that Singh’s release on parole, occurring just three days before the Haryana Assembly elections, reflects a desperate strategy by the ruling BJP to counter anti-incumbency sentiments and challenge the Congress party’s influence. Despite his convictions for rape and murder, Ram Rahim continues to wield considerable influence over a loyal following in parts of the state, which poses a potential threat to the opposition parties. Although Ram Rahim is prohibited from entering Haryana or engaging in election-related activities during his parole, these restrictions are superficial, as he can still communicate and influence voters through social media and informal channels. This ability to sway public opinion without direct involvement in the campaign raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process.
Additionally, the alarming speed with which his parole request was processed, moving seamlessly through various levels of government, including the caretaker Chief Minister’s office and the state’s Chief Electoral Officer, suggests that the authorities are willing to bypass bureaucratic hurdles when it suits their interests. Although Ram Rahim may not hold the same sway he once did, his ability to secure favourable treatment in recent years indicates that he remains a formidable figure. The entire episode highlights the intersection of criminal influence and political manoeuvring in the elections in our country. The election results will be declared on October 8, and political analysts are closely watching how this development may affect the outcome.
