In a remarkable decision, the Karnataka High Court recently granted 90 days of parole to a convict, identified as Chandra, serving a life sentence for murder, to oversee agricultural activities on his family farm. This farm is located in Siddhevarahalli village, Ramanagar district. Chandra, who has been in prison for the past 11 years, appealed to the High Court following the rejection of his parole application by the Superintendent of the Central Jail, Bengaluru.
Justice Hemant Chandangoudar ruled in favor of the parole, citing the absence of any male members in Chandra’s family to manage the farming duties. This decision was made under strict conditions, including prohibitions against engaging in any unlawful activities during the parole period and mandatory weekly check-ins at the local CO office.
The original parole request was dismissed by the jail superintendent on September 23, 2024, prompting Chandra to take his case to the High Court. Upholding Chandra’s plea, Justice Chandangoudar stated that Chandra had made a prima facie case for his release on parole, noting that he had not been previously granted parole during his over 11-year incarceration.
The judge further emphasized that the jail superintendent could apply standard conditions to ensure Chandra’s return to custody after the parole and prevent any further offenses during this period. The court also warned that any violation of the set conditions would automatically revoke the parole. Chandra is required to register his presence with the local police every Monday, ensuring compliance with his release terms.
