Serial Offender Guru’s Parole Sparks Outrage as He Walks Free for the 15th Time
NEW DELHI, Feb. 7, 2026
A self‑styled spiritual guru convicted of rape and murder has been released on parole for the 15th time, reigniting a national debate over India’s parole system, the influence of powerful religious figures, and the rights of victims’ families who say they have been “forgotten by the justice system.”
The guru, whose name is withheld here in accordance with ethical reporting standards to avoid amplifying notoriety, is serving a life sentence for the rape of two female disciples and the murder of a journalist who investigated allegations against him. Despite the gravity of his crimes, authorities have repeatedly granted him temporary release—often citing medical grounds, family events, or administrative discretion.
His latest parole, approved this week, has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts, women’s rights advocates, and the families of victims who argue that the repeated leniency undermines public trust in the justice system.
A Pattern of Controversial Releases
Court records show that the guru has been granted parole 14 times previously, with durations ranging from a few days to several weeks. Each release has triggered public scrutiny, but the frequency of approvals has escalated concerns about whether influential convicts receive preferential treatment.
Prison officials maintain that all releases were granted “in accordance with legal provisions,” but critics argue that the pattern suggests systemic vulnerability to political or social pressure.
“This is not normal. Ordinary convicts—especially those convicted of violent crimes—rarely receive parole this frequently,” said a senior criminal lawyer in Delhi. “The justice system must be seen as fair, and this case raises serious questions.”
Victims’ Families Say They Feel Betrayed
For the families of the women who came forward with rape allegations, the repeated paroles have been emotionally devastating.
One relative, speaking on condition of anonymity due to safety concerns, said the news of the latest release felt like “reliving the trauma all over again.”
“We fought for years to get justice. Now it feels like the system is slowly undoing everything,” the family member said. “Every time he walks out, even temporarily, we fear for our safety.”
The family of the murdered journalist—who was shot dead after publishing reports on the guru’s alleged abuses—expressed similar anguish, saying the repeated paroles “mock the sacrifice” of a man who risked his life to expose wrongdoing.
Supporters Celebrate, Critics Warn of Influence
Outside the prison gates, hundreds of the guru’s followers gathered to celebrate his release, chanting slogans and showering his vehicle with flower petals. Many believe he was framed, despite multiple court rulings affirming his guilt.
Sociologists say such displays highlight the deep influence charismatic religious leaders hold in parts of India, often enabling them to mobilize large groups even after conviction.
“This is not just a legal issue—it’s a social one,” said a researcher who studies cult dynamics. “When a spiritual figure commands unwavering loyalty, it can create pressure on institutions, whether intentional or not.”
Legal Experts Call for Parole Reform
The case has renewed calls for a comprehensive review of India’s parole policies, particularly for convicts serving sentences for sexual violence or homicide.
Women’s rights groups argue that parole decisions should include mandatory consultation with victims’ families and independent oversight to prevent misuse.
“Parole is meant for rehabilitation and humanitarian grounds—not as a privilege for the powerful,” said a spokesperson for a national women’s advocacy organisation. “This case exposes the urgent need for reform.”
Government Faces Questions
Opposition leaders have demanded transparency from state authorities, asking for detailed explanations of the criteria used to approve each of the guru’s 15 paroles. Officials have so far declined to comment beyond confirming the release.
Legal analysts say the government may face increasing pressure to justify its decisions, especially as public anger grows.
A System Under Scrutiny
As the guru begins yet another temporary release from prison, the controversy surrounding his case shows no sign of fading. For many, it has become a symbol of the broader struggle to ensure equal justice in a system where influence, faith, and politics often intersect.
For the victims’ families, the hope is simple: that the sentence handed down
