“If Ram Rahim can get parole 17 times, why not Bandi Singhs?” questions Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargajj
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, August 25, 2026: Acting Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargajj has questioned what he described as “double standards” in the granting of parole, citing the repeated release of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh while several Sikh prisoners, or Bandi Singhs, continue to remain incarcerated.
Gargajj said that if Ram Rahim could be granted parole repeatedly, there should be no justification for denying similar relief to Bandi Singhs, particularly those who have spent decades in prison.
Speaking to the media, the Acting Jathedar said prisoners convicted in serious criminal cases were being released on parole on multiple occasions, while several Bandi Singhs had remained behind bars for around 35 years despite, according to him, having completed their sentences.
Gargajj made a specific appeal for parole for Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawala, citing the reported ill health of his mother. He said members of the Sikh community and organisations advocating human rights and humanitarian causes were demanding his temporary release so that he could meet his ailing mother.
Describing the matter as a humanitarian concern, Gargajj said a mother should not be deprived of the opportunity to meet her son and urged the authorities to consider the request on compassionate grounds.
He also raised the cases of other imprisoned Sikh prisoners, including Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana, Bhai Jagtar Singh Tara, Bhai Paramjit Singh Bheora and Professor Davinderpal Singh Bhullar.
Gargajj questioned the delay in the proposed commutation of Rajoana’s death sentence to life imprisonment. He also alleged that the process concerning Professor Bhullar’s release had been delayed because of pending action by the Delhi government.
Calling for an end to what he termed discriminatory treatment, Gargajj urged the authorities to grant parole to Jagtar Singh Hawala on humanitarian grounds and take steps towards the release of Bandi Singhs who have completed their sentences.
His remarks come amid continuing debate over parole, remission and the release of prisoners serving long-term sentences in India.