Chandigarh, June 25: A day after the Haryana government drew flak for considering the parole plea of rape-convicted godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar told reporters that a prisoner's right to apply for parole cannot be curtailed. The government, Khattar claimed, is yet to decide on his application.

"There are certain legal procedures and a person who has the right to seek parole can seek it. We can't stop anyone. As of now, no decision has been taken on Ram Rahim's parole," Khattar said. Faridkot on High Alert After Gurmeet Ram Rahim's Close Aide Killed in Nabha Jail

Reports had on Monday claimed that the Haryana police has recommended parole for Ram Rahim citing his "good behaviour" in the jail.

The Dera Sacha Sauda chief had applied for parole last week, seeking the government's permit to temporarily move out for "farming purpose".

Notably, Ram Rahim was convicted in August 2017 by the Special CBI Court in Panchkula, which found him guilty of raping two of his former devotees. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The consideration of Ram Rahim's parole has drawn flak towards the Khattar government, with activist Yogendra Yadav alleging that the ruling BJP is attempting to reap poll benefits ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Haryana.

"He is currently being tried in one more murder case. Also, there is serious apprehension of law and order problem in Punjab in connection with "desecration" of Sri Guru Granth Sahib. All this is public knowledge. Why this attempt to release him," questioned Yadav, whose Swaraj India has planned protests in parts of Haryana if Ram Rahim is granted parole.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 25, 2019 04:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).