New Delhi: Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh walked out of Haryana's Sunaria jail in Rohtak on Tuesday after being granted a 21-day furlough. This is his 17th temporary release since 2020.
Ram Rahim, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence, was convicted in 2017 for raping two women disciples. The conviction was delivered by a special CBI court, following which he was sent to prison.
Ram Rahim's latest furlough
The Dera chief's latest release comes months after he was granted a 30-day parole in May 2026. According to prison records, he has received multiple temporary releases over the past few years under applicable rules.
Since 2020, Ram Rahim has been granted furloughs and paroles ranging from a few hours to 50 days. His latest 21-day furlough is the 17th such release recorded during this period.
Timeline of temporary releases
Ram Rahim's first temporary release came in October 2020 for one day. In May 2021, he was allowed a short release to visit his mother.
From February 2022 onwards, he received several temporary releases, including 21-day, 30-day and 40-day periods. His longest temporary release was for 50 days in January 2024.
The list of his recent releases includes a 40-day parole in August 2025, another 40-day release in January 2026, a 30-day parole in May 2026 and the current 21-day furlough in August 2026.
Rules governing furlough and parole
Ram Rahim's temporary releases are governed by the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Act, 2022.
Under the rules, eligible prisoners can be granted parole and furlough for a limited period after meeting required conditions. The decision depends on factors such as eligibility, conduct and approval by the competent authority.