LawRato

What is Parole and what are the grounds to get Parole?

July 28, 2026

Table of Contents
  1. What is meant by Parole?
  2. What is the objective of Parole?
  3. What are the Grounds for Parole?
  4. What is the Procedure to get Parole?
  5. How can a lawyer help you in getting Parole?

The term “Parole” meaning in law, is an important aspect of the Indian justice system. It provides a chance for convicts who have served their time in prison to reintegrate into society, fostering redemption and normalcy. It takes a more humane approach towards convicts. While the term is familiar, its intricacies often remain elusive. Read on to learn more about everything you need to know about parole, the grounds on which parole is granted in India, and the difference between parole and furlough.


What is meant by Parole?

Before we talk about the grounds for granting parole, it is essential to understand what parole means. It is the Delhi Prisons Act, 2000 which defines Parole under Section 2(p). As per it, Parole means the system of releasing prisoners from prison by the suspension of their sentences in accordance with the rules. The parole rules as described in the Prisons Act, 2000 are a part of the penal and prison system. The main objective of the parole system is to humanize the prison system.


LawRato
Consult top-rated Criminal lawyers in your city
LawRato 641+ Lawyers are online



What is the objective of Parole?

As discussed, the primary aim of granting parole is to promote a humanitarian approach within the prison system. It allows incarcerated individuals to temporarily reenter society, aiding in their rehabilitation as productive citizens. Parole is a benevolent act and should be regarded as a fundamental right. It serves as a vital tool for reforming prisoners and recognising their continued connection to society. Under the current system, parole eligibility begins after one-third of the sentence for terms exceeding eighteen months.

Consult: Top  Criminal Lawyers in India


What are the Grounds for Parole?

The maximum period allowed for parole is one month and the prisoner has to fulfill the condition of the minimum prison time to be served, to be applicable for parole. Some of the grounds on which parole is approved are:-

  • Serious illness of a close family member.

  • Death of a family member.

  • An accident of a family member.

  • The marriage of a family member.

  • Delivery of a child by the prisoner's wife.

  • Serious damage to the life or property of a family member due to natural calamity.

It is important to note that a certain category of prisoners is exempted from the privilege of parole such as prisoners convicted for terrorism, multiple murders, and are a threat to national security, etc.


What is the Procedure to get Parole?

The procedure for parole involves the following steps:-

  • The prisoner after completing the mandated jail time applies for parole.

  • The jail authority then asks for a report from the police station where the arrest was made.

  • The report is then verified.

  • If the reason for parole is a medical emergency, relevant medical records and certificates are also verified.

  • The final report is then submitted to the Deputy Secretary, State Government, or Inspector General of Prisons.

  • The competent authority then takes the decision on parole.


LawRato
Consult top-rated Criminal lawyers in your city
LawRato 641+ Lawyers are online



How can a lawyer help you in getting Parole?

One of the first and most important steps you should start with is to hire a good criminal lawyer , as he is aware of the legal processes and nitty-gritty involved in the case of Parole. A criminal lawyer has the legal knowledge and experience necessary to handle and draft necessary documents related to parole. He will be able to guide you and draft a parole application for you according to your special circumstances and facts, and the necessary things to be involved. A criminal lawyer is aware of good legal techniques. Hiring a lawyer will help you in more ways than one. You can also ask a lawyer online a free legal question using LawRato's Ask a Free Question service.



These guides are not legal advice, nor a substitute for a lawyer
These articles are provided freely as general guides. While we do our best to make sure these guides are helpful, we do not give any guarantee that they are accurate or appropriate to your situation, or take any responsibility for any loss their use might cause you. Do not rely on information provided here without seeking experienced legal advice first. If in doubt, please always consult a lawyer.

Connect with top Criminal lawyers for your specific issue

Comments by Users


No Comments! Be the first one to comment.

Popular Criminal Lawyers


Advocate Chitra Bhanu Gupta
BBD Bagh, Kolkata
22 years Experience
Advocate Anisha Biswas
Olisa House, Kolkata
5 years Experience
Advocate Rahul Uday Singh
B B D Bagh, Kolkata
16 years Experience
Advocate Mousomie Shoome
Delta House, Government Place, Kolkata
13 years Experience

Frequently Asked Questions


What are the potential consequences if a parolee violates the conditions of their parole in India?

If a parolee in India violates their parole conditions, they may face immediate arrest and return to custody. The parole may be revoked, leading to serving the remaining sentence in prison. Additionally, the violation can impact future parole eligibility and result in legal penalties.


What are the eligibility criteria for an inmate to apply for parole in India?

In India, an inmate is eligible for parole if they have served a minimum portion of their sentence, typically one-third, and have demonstrated good behavior. Parole is not granted for serious offenses like terrorism or repeat offenses. The inmate must also not pose a threat to society.


How does the process of applying for parole differ between various states in India?

The parole application process in India varies by state, with differences in eligibility criteria, required documentation, and review procedures. Some states may have specific boards or committees for parole decisions, while others might involve judicial oversight, reflecting diverse administrative practices.


What role do family circumstances play in the decision to grant parole in India?

Family circumstances can influence parole decisions in India by providing context about the inmate's support system and rehabilitation prospects. Authorities may consider factors like family health issues or responsibilities, which could justify temporary release to address personal or familial needs.


How does the parole board assess the risk of reoffending when considering an application for parole in India?

The parole board in India assesses the risk of reoffending by evaluating the inmate's behavior, rehabilitation progress, psychological assessments, and any history of violence. They also consider input from prison officials, victims, and community impact, ensuring a comprehensive review before granting parole.


User Reviews


LawRato LawRato LawRato LawRato LawRato 4.7 - 15 reviews
R
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

Excellent work. Very helpful for understanding the subject.

Rajan on Oct 04, 2026
N
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

nice work. Learned a lot. Thanks

Nagaraj on Oct 12, 2026
R
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

Very informative and a good read as well.

Rupesh on Oct 02, 2026
S
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

very informative. Can you tell more about this

Samir on Sep 08, 2026
V
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

informative

Vijay on Oct 14, 2026
N
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

can you share your helpline number

Nidhi on Oct 05, 2026
M
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

thanks for the info. How can we contact a lawyer?

Manju on Sep 20, 2026
A
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

Very helpful in understanding the law.

Anshu on Oct 16, 2026
J
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

it’s a very nice legal article

Jayesh on Sep 12, 2026
N
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

good article. Please provide more info

Neetu on Oct 03, 2026
M
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

solved my queries.

Megha on Oct 05, 2026
P
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

helpful in understanding the law

Pradeep on Sep 06, 2026
P
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

thanks for the information

Prakash on Sep 19, 2026
D
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

good work

Devendra on Sep 04, 2026
A
LawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRatoLawRato

nice article. Thanks for the information

Anuj on Sep 27, 2026

VIEW ALL