Self-Styled Guru Ram Pal Released from Jail After 11 Years
Release of Ram Pal from Hisar Jail
Chandigarh: Ram Pal, a self-styled guru serving a life sentence in Hisar Central Jail, has been released today following his bail approval in a case linked to sedition. His release comes after the tragic violence at the Satlok Ashram in Barwala, Hisar, which resulted in the deaths of six individuals, including women and children. His followers eagerly awaited his release, gathering outside the jail even a day prior to the announcement. After spending 11 years, 4 months, and 24 days behind bars, Ram Pal was welcomed by his supporters as he stepped out of the prison.
Ram Pal, aged 78, exited the jail with a smile, while a police officer stationed at the gate folded his hands in respect. He then departed in a white Fortuner vehicle, heading towards the Satlok Ashram located in his native village of Dhanana in the Sonipat district. His convoy consisted of around 20 vehicles, including Defenders and Fortuners. The Punjab and Haryana High Court granted him bail on April 8, and police had implemented strict security measures around the jail to maintain law and order in the city.
Ram Pal was identified as inmate number 1005 during his incarceration. He was arrested following a violent clash between police and his supporters at the Satlok Ashram in 2014, which led to the fatalities. After a lengthy trial, he was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment, with 425 witnesses presented, of which 58 provided crucial testimonies. While in jail, he resided in a special barrack and spent much of his time reading spiritual literature in the library.
In celebration of his release, a series of spiritual gatherings (Satsangs) are scheduled to take place across the country and abroad from May 1 to May 3. According to the ashram's volunteers, these events aim to promote world peace. There are currently 14 operational Satlok Ashrams in India, with six more under construction, along with branches in 72 countries.
Following the violence, both ashrams in Hisar have been sealed. The Satlok Ashram was established on the Chandigarh highway after disputes at the Karutha Ashram in Rohtak. Ram Pal had a lavish residence on the third floor of the Barwala ashram. During the police operation to arrest him, clashes erupted between law enforcement and his followers, leading to the use of bulldozers to demolish parts of the ashram. Supporters reportedly threw petrol bombs at police personnel from the rooftops. After Ram Pal's arrest, police evacuated his followers and sealed the ashram, which remains closed to this day, along with the ashram on the Daulatpur road, with both properties attached to the ongoing case.