Delhi High Court Grants Murder Convict Parole for Wedding Ceremony

In a rare move, the High Court of Delhi has granted a two-week parole to a man serving a life sentence for murder, allowing him to attend his engagement ceremony and wedding. Rahul Dev, convicted and sentenced in 2014 for murder-related offences, sought parole to participate in his upcoming nuptials, scheduled for April 30 at an Arya Samaj temple in Delhi.

Justice Amit Sharma, considering Dev’s previous record of surrendering on time after availing parole, approved the request, stating, “In the totality of the facts & circumstances, the present petition is allowed. The petitioner is granted parole for a period of two weeks.”

Dev’s plea for four weeks’ parole was mitigated to two weeks by the court, taking into account his past parole history. The court specified that the parole duration would be calculated from the date of his release and instructed him to surrender promptly to the jail superintendent upon its expiration.

Dev’s case underscores the judiciary’s occasional discretion in granting temporary release to prisoners for significant life events, despite the severity of their offences. While parole is typically granted for compassionate reasons or to facilitate rehabilitation, the decision to allow parole for a wedding ceremony highlights the delicate balance between justice and humanity within the legal system.

The court’s decision acknowledges Dev’s right to participate in important family milestones while emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal procedures and regulations. Despite the gravity of his crime, Dev’s temporary release underscores the judiciary’s recognition of the human aspect within the criminal justice system.

The case also sheds light on the complexities surrounding parole decisions and the considerations taken into account by the judiciary. Factors such as the prisoner’s conduct, past parole history, and the nature of the event being attended all play a role in determining whether temporary release is granted.

As Dev prepares to temporarily leave the confines of Mandoli Jail to partake in his wedding festivities, his case serves as a reminder of the nuanced approach required in balancing justice and compassion within the legal system.

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