CHANDIGARH — Acting Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargajj has raised sharp questions over what he characterized as systemic double standards in the granting of prison relief, contrasting the repeated releases granted to Dera Sacha Sauda head Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh with the continued incarceration of Sikh political prisoners, known as Bandi Singhs.
Addressing the media, Gargajj pointed out that while individuals convicted of heinous criminal offenses have been repeatedly allowed out on parole and furlough, several Bandi Singhs have spent nearly 35 years behind bars despite having completed their substantive jail terms. He argued that if the administration can repeatedly facilitate temporary release for high-profile convicts, there is no justifiable basis to withhold similar relief from long-serving Sikh prisoners.
The Acting Jathedar made an urgent humanitarian appeal on behalf of Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawara, highlighting the critical health condition of Hawara’s ailing mother. Noting widespread appeals from community members and human rights advocates, Gargajj urged authorities to grant Hawara temporary parole on compassionate grounds so that an elderly mother is not denied the chance to meet her son.
Gargajj also highlighted the cases of other incarcerated Sikh figures, including Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana, Bhai Jagtar Singh Tara, Bhai Paramjit Singh Bheora, and Professor Davinderpal Singh Bhullar. He questioned the prolonged administrative delay in deciding the proposed commutation of Rajoana’s death sentence to life imprisonment and alleged that Bhullar’s release process continues to face hurdles due to pending clearances from the Delhi government. Calling for an end to unequal legal treatment, he urged the competent authorities to adopt a fair, compassionate approach and expedite the release of prisoners who have completed their sentences.
