What is the difference between parole and furlough for prisoners in Shimla?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Parole and furlough in Shimla are governed by the Himachal Pradesh Rent Control Act 2012 and the state prison rules, with distinct purposes and conditions. Parole is granted for a specific emergency such as illness or death of a family member, while furlough is a periodic release granted to maintain family ties and social adjustment.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has held that furlough is a right earned by good conduct, while parole is an emergency measure. The period of furlough is counted as part of the sentence, whereas parole is in addition to the sentence.

The convict must surrender after the expiry of the release period and any violation can lead to cancellation of future releases. If furlough is denied without valid reasons, the convict can approach the Himachal Pradesh High Court for redressal.

The court has directed that furlough applications must be processed within 30 days.