FATEHGARH SAHIB, Punjab—Although the parole period of the 4 Sikhs released recently is almost over, the Panthik Committee constituted to seek the release of Sikh political prisoners is working towards their permanent release. Bhai Harpal Singh Cheema, a member of the “Bandi Singh Rihai Committee” told Sikh24 that parole was the first step in seeking the permanent release of the Sikhs.
“Parole is generally the first step in seeking a permanent release. Thereafter courts generally look at the good behavior of prisoners and based on individual cases, they can extend parole and/or issue bail before prisoners are released permanently,” said Bhai Cheema.
Bhai Harpal Singh Cheema, along with Advocate S. Amar Singh Cheema were in New Delhi recently for a court case related to Jathedar Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawara. Both held a meeting with Government officials to seek bail for the paroled Sikhs. The Bandi Singh Rihai Committee played an important role in seeking the release of four Sikhs. It’s members have recently filed bail applications for the paroled Sikhs and they are expecting a positive outcome.
It should be noted that Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Badal recently stated that to stop the four Sikhs going back into jail and releasing them on a permanent basis is not in the hands of the Punjab government as they are not in the custody of Punjab and their cases are in the jurisdiction of Chandigarh.
