Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the drafting of a stringent law to severely restrict parole and furlough for individuals convicted of sexual offenses, particularly those involving children. This decision follows public outcry and concerns regarding the recent release on parole of a convicted rapist, who was subsequently accused of attempting to re-offend.
The proposed legislation aims to amend existing laws to make it significantly more difficult for sex offenders to secure temporary release. Currently, parole is granted based on factors like behavior in prison, family responsibilities, and the possibility of rehabilitation. The new law intends to prioritize public safety above these considerations for this specific category of criminals.
Key aspects of the proposed law include a longer minimum sentence served before parole eligibility, potentially requiring offenders to serve a substantial portion of their sentence – possibly up to 14 years or more – before being considered. It will also likely introduce stricter conditions for parole, including enhanced monitoring and GPS tracking.
Fadnavis emphasized that the law will not be retrospective, meaning it will apply to future convictions. He acknowledged the legal complexities involved, particularly concerning existing parole rules and potential challenges to the new legislation. A committee comprising legal experts, Home Department officials, and representatives from the Prison Department has been formed to draft the bill.
The government is also considering establishing a dedicated cell within the Prison Department to specifically handle cases related to sex offenders and monitor their behavior both during and after their release. This cell will work to assess the risk of re-offending and ensure compliance with parole conditions.
The move is a response to growing public demand for stricter measures against sexual offenders and aims to address the perceived loopholes in the existing system that allowed for the release of individuals deemed a threat to society. The government intends to table the bill in the upcoming legislative session.
