In a significant development, the Supreme Court on Tuesday granted interim bail to the controversial self-styled godman Asaram in a 2013 rape case, citing medical grounds. The bail is valid until March 31, with strict conditions attached to his release.
Medical Considerations and Conditions
A bench comprising Justices M M Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal acknowledged that the 86-year-old Asaram suffers from multiple age-related health issues, including a severe heart ailment. Taking these factors into account, the apex court agreed to grant him temporary relief.
However, the court imposed a strict directive:
🔹 Asaram must not meet any of his followers during his bail period.
This condition aims to prevent any undue influence or potential misuse of his release.
Background of the Case
Asaram was convicted by a Gandhinagar court in 2023 in connection with a rape case filed by a woman who had lived in his ashram near Gandhinagar when the crime occurred in 2013. He is currently serving a life sentence in this case, apart from being incarcerated in Jodhpur Jail in Rajasthan for another rape conviction.
The Supreme Court clarified that its decision to grant bail would be restricted solely to medical considerations, setting aside other aspects of his conviction.
Timeline of Legal Proceedings
- August 29, 2024: The Gujarat High Court rejected Asaram’s plea seeking suspension of his life sentence, finding no grounds to provide relief.
- January 2023: The Gandhinagar trial court convicted Asaram in the 2013 case.
- Current Plea: The Supreme Court sought a response from the Gujarat government regarding his petition, focusing only on his medical condition.
Future Outlook
Asaram’s interim bail period will expire on March 31, and the court has emphasized the temporary nature of this relief. Further hearings will determine the continuation or cessation of his sentence suspension based on health evaluations.
This interim decision reflects the court’s attempt to balance compassion for health issues with strict adherence to legal accountability.
