Rape convict Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh had filed for parole in the month of May for farming at his fields in Haryana's Sirsa. He has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for raping minors.
The Haryana High Court had observed that releasing Ram Rahim could lead to a law and order problem. But now, the BJP government in Haryana seems to be considering the parole citing Ram Rahim’s ‘good conduct’ in jail.
But why? More importantly, is this okay? Twitter gave their two cents.
Some expressed shock:
“Modi ji, when is next Mann ki Baat on Beti Bachao?” asked one Twitter user.
“Strongest and exemplary punishment must be given to him for his heinous acts in the name of God,” said Swati Maliwal, chairperson of Delhi Commission for Women.
Some spoke in support of the Dera chief. “Court can give parole to those who have great political influence, even if they are part of multiple murders and crimes, but not to Baba Ram Rahim who is fully cooperating. Why?” one supporter asked.
‘Not Entitled For Parole’
Political analyst Yogendra Yadav said “Gurmeet Ram Rahim falls under ‘Hard Core’ prisoner category as he has been convicted twice for heinous crime. He is not entitled for parole.”
He also mentioned a possible law and order situation problem that would occur if Ram Rahim was to be granted parole. No prisoner is to be released if there is apprehension of breach of law and order.
‘Star Campaigner For BJP’
“Will he now become the star campaigner for the BJP,” asked lawyer-activist Prashant Bhushan.
Journalist Swati Chaturvedi also echoed the thought. “Upcoming elections in Haryana BJP wants Dera support so what if Ram Rahim is a serial rapist,” she asked.
Journalist Rajdeep Sardesai also agreed with that logic. “Real reason? It's an election year in Haryana yaar, Dera gets you votes!!” he tweeted.
#Don’tSpareRapistBaba
#Don’tSpareRapistBaba was also trending. On one hand, you talk about Beti Bachao Bet Padhao and on the other, you free rapists, said one Twitter user.
“How will rapes stop if the government backs the rapists,” asked another.
Favouring parole of a rape convict, at a time when the state is going to elections is not looking good on the BJP government.
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