Delhi High Court: Furlough and Parole Can Be Considered Even If Convict’s Appeal Is Pending in Supreme Court

The Delhi High Court held that prison authorities can consider furlough and parole applications even if a convict’s appeal against conviction is pending before the Supreme Court.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma clarified that the Delhi Prison Rules, 2018, specifically Note 2 to Rule 1224 bar release during High Court appeals, but do not extend this restriction to Supreme Court proceedings.

However, the Court directed that each application must be assessed on its merits, including factors like prior bail denial or suspension of sentence, before granting any relief. (Budhi Singh v State of NCT of Delhi)