Delhi High Court grants murder convict a four-week parole extension after floods destroyed his crops, citing ‘An Act of God’ to protect his family’s livelihood.
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NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court extended the parole of a murder convict, Praveen Rana, by four weeks to enable him to tend to his agricultural land, which was severely damaged by the recent floods. The extension was granted by Justice Arun Monga, who noted that the situation was an “Act of God” and that the convict’s presence was crucial for ensuring his family’s survival.
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Background of the Case
Rana, who is serving a life sentence, had initially been granted parole by a coordinate bench on August 18 for agricultural activities. However, with the expiry date of the parole, he approached the High Court seeking an extension, citing the devastation caused by torrential rains and flooding.
His counsel argued that Rana had earlier sown seasonal crops during a temporary release in June, but the fields were inundated and the crop was destroyed. With floodwaters only now receding, urgent tasks such as tilling, sowing, applying fertilizers, and arranging agricultural inputs had become necessary. Counsel stressed that the farmland, measuring 1.5 acres, was the sole means of livelihood for Rana’s family, including his widowed mother and two minor children.
State’s Objection
Appearing for the Delhi Government, ASC Rupali Bandhopadhya opposed the plea, pointing out that the application for extension was filed belatedly, on the very day his parole was due to expire. She contended that such conduct should not inspire confidence.
Court’s Observation
After considering both sides, Justice Monga observed that the floods were an unforeseen natural calamity and Rana’s continued presence was necessary for his family’s sustenance. The court stated:
“The petitioner’s continued presence is not only unforeseen, being an act of God (heavy rains), but otherwise also appears to be necessary for sustaining his family’s only source of livelihood, on which his widowed mother and two minor children are entirely dependent.”
The judge emphasized that without Rana’s active supervision, the agricultural recovery process could not be effectively carried out, jeopardizing the family’s survival and the education of his children.
The Order:
Accordingly, the High Court granted a four-week extension of parole on the same terms and conditions as imposed in the August 18 order. However, the court clarified that this extension would be treated as a second parole under the jail manual and considered accordingly for future purposes.
To ensure swift compliance, Justice Monga also directed that a copy of the order be sent to the concerned Jail Superintendent and asked the state’s counsel to immediately inform the jail authorities over the phone to avoid delay.
Case Title:
PRAVEEN RANA versus STATE GNCT OF DELHI
W.P.(CRL) 2495/2025
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