Parole is a system of releasing a prisoner with suspension of the sentence. The release is conditional, usually subject to behaviour, and requires periodic reporting to the authorities for a set period of time.
Parole may be denied to a convict while furlough is seen as a matter of right, to be granted periodically irrespective of any reason and to enable the prisoner to retain family and social ties.
Parole is not a matter of right and may be denied to a prisoner even when he makes out a sufficient case.
Furlough is typically given in cases of long jail terms. The period of furlough granted to a prisoner is treated as remission of his sentence.
Usually, furlough can be obtained thrice a year and is given to inmates with good behaviour.
Parole is granted by the state executive and competent authority takes a final decision on grant of parole on humanitarian considerations.
If parole is rejected, the convict can move the High Court challenging the order of the competent authority.
Also, apart from regular parole, the superintendent of a jail can also grant parole up to a period of seven days in emergent cases.
