L-G Jung, CM Kejriwal in new war of words over Chautala parole request

According to sources, the Lt Governor had asked Jain to act swiftly, given Chautala’s advanced age and ill-health.

In a two-page file noting, Kerjiwal had questioned Jung’s interest in the case, sources said.

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“The chief minister has questioned the Lt Governor’s interest in the case. Chautala was 82 years old when convicted by the court. If the court handed him a 10-year-sentence at his age, why should the government take his age into account while dealing with his parole application,” said a source. According to sources, Kejriwal also asked the Lt Governor how many cases, pertaining to aged prisoners, he had taken an interest in.

However, the Lt Governor’s office said that based on the recommendations made by Jain, Jung had rejected Chautala’s parole application on October 5.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Jung’s office said, “The principal secretary (Home) and minister (Home), GNCTD did not recommend the parole on the ground that convict had last availed one month parole w.e.f. April 4, 2015 to May 5, 2015, further extended to May 28, 2015 and he surrendered on June 3, 2015”.

Jung had rejected Chautala’s parole plea as there should be a gap of minimum six months from the date of termination of last parole, his office said, adding that no parole plea has been received from the former chief minister thereafter.

Sources in the Lt Governor’s secretariat said that the case has been decided and a matter like this should not be needlessly politicised.