The Delhi High Court has ruled that an undertrial’s wish to console ailing parents is not a valid reason for emergent parole under the Delhi Prison Rules, 2018, emphasizing that emotional grounds alone don’t justify parole relief.
Today, On 10th February, The Delhi High Court asked the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to respond after a separatist leader requested permission to use phone calls in jail. The leader said talking to family is a basic right, but officials raised security concerns. The court has asked the NIA to share its opinion on the issue. A final decision will be taken after reviewing their reply.
The power to grant furlough is usually with the government (executive), but in Delhi, the High Court is hearing a case about this rule. Furlough is a temporary leave from prison given as a right to well-behaved prisoners, while parole is granted in special cases based on need. The Delhi rule is different because the court, not just the government, plays a role in these decisions. This case is important as it may change how furlough is granted in Delhi.
The Delhi High Court upheld Tihar Jail’s decision to deny AAP MP Sandeep Pathak permission to meet Arvind Kejriwal, citing his political statements during a previous visit as a breach of prison rules. Pathak was criticized for acting as Kejriwal’s spokesperson, and the court stated that future visitation applications would be considered in accordance with the law.
