Asaram Bapu granted 6-month bail on medical grounds

Asaram Bapu

The Gujarat High Court on Thursday granted self-styled godman Asaram Bapu six months of interim bail on medical grounds in connection with a 2013 rape case. The court noted that the Rajasthan High Court had earlier suspended his sentence in a separate Jodhpur case for similar health-related reasons.

A division bench comprising Justices Ilesh J Vora and R T Vachhani clarified that the relief was being granted strictly for medical treatment and that Asaram’s convictions and life sentences will continue to remain in effect, Hindustan Times reported.

Asaram Bapu was sentenced to life imprisonment by a Jodhpur court in April 2018 for the rape of a minor at his ashram in 2013. In 2023, a Gujarat court handed him another life term in a separate rape case filed in Gandhinagar the same year. He also faces related charges of conspiracy and witness intimidation, and both convictions have been upheld by the courts.

His lawyer, senior advocate Devadutt Kamat, argued that the 82-year-old spiritual leader suffers from multiple ailments, including heart disease, hypertension, hypothyroidism, anaemia, and gastrointestinal issues, which require specialised treatment unavailable in prison. He was taken to Delhi in September for medical care.

The Rajasthan High Court had previously taken note of Asaram’s deteriorating health condition. Although earlier bail requests, including one filed in August, were denied, they were later reconsidered following new medical assessments. Asaram Bapu had been previously given temporary bail by the Supreme Court in January 2024, which was later extended by the Gujarat High Court.

According to the report by Hindustan Times, the Gujarat government suggested that if appropriate medical care was not available in his current facility, he could be shifted to another prison within the state equipped to handle his treatment needs.

Meanwhile, senior advocate B B Naik, appearing for the rape survivor, opposed the bail plea, arguing that the medical certificates submitted did not prove that Asaram’s condition was critical. “Last time I said that he wants to tour India… Today, he is seeking treatment… No need to grant temporary bail,” Naik told the court.

The High Court further directed that Asaram Bapu must not hold gatherings, deliver sermons, or participate in any religious activities during his bail period. He will remain under police supervision, report to local authorities as required, and adhere strictly to his prescribed medical regimen.