Rampal released from Hisar jail after over 11 years

Hisar: Controversial preacher Rampal of Satlok Ashram was released from Hisar Central Jail No. 2 on Friday after spending 4,161 days behind bars. His release follows the Punjab and Haryana high court granting him bail in a case linked to the 2014 ashram violence.Rampal, who was arrested on Nov 19, 2014, has been in judicial custody since Dec 8, 2014. He has already secured bail or had sentences suspended in all other criminal cases against him. The FIRs were filed in Nov 2014 for sedition and several other serious charges after he challenged high court directions to appear in person for a contempt of court case. A total of 5,375 personnel from state and central forces arrested Rampal and his aides following a 10-day operation on Nob 19, 2014 — an effort that cost the exchequer Rs 26 crore at the time. Heavy police deployment was maintained outside the jail as a large number of followers gathered. Rampal's nephew, Yudhveer, said family members arrived in seven vehicles to receive him. Rampal left directly for the Dhanana ashram in Gohana (Sonipat), where his family resides.During his time in custody, Rampal became a great-grandfather. His family, including his wife, two sons, and two daughters, lives at the Dhanana Ashram. His elder son, Virendra, is now a grandfather himself. Under his bail conditions, Rampal is barred from organising or participating in any public gatherings. The court has warned that any violation could lead to the immediate cancellation of his bail. MSID:: 130172670 413 |