The Supreme Court of India has granted interim bail to self-proclaimed godman Asaram Bapu on medical grounds in a 2013 rape case, citing his deteriorating health. However, the apex court has imposed stringent conditions to ensure that his release does not interfere with the ongoing judicial process.
Key Bail Conditions
- No Contact with Followers: Asaram has been strictly prohibited from meeting or communicating with his followers during the bail period.
- Geographical Restrictions: He cannot leave Ahmedabad without obtaining prior permission from the court.
- Tampering with Evidence: Any attempt to influence witnesses or tamper with evidence will result in the immediate cancellation of his bail.
Background of the Case
Asaram Bapu, once a revered spiritual leader with a massive following, was convicted in 2018 for sexually assaulting a minor girl at his Jodhpur ashram in 2013. The victim, a 16-year-old from Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, alleged that Asaram summoned her under the pretense of a spiritual healing session, during which the assault took place.
Asaram has been incarcerated in Jodhpur Central Jail since his arrest in August 2013. Over the years, his repeated bail pleas were denied due to concerns over his influence on witnesses and the judicial process.
Medical Grounds for Bail
Asaram?s lawyers argued that the 82-year-old convict suffers from multiple age-related ailments and requires advanced medical care that cannot be provided within prison facilities. Despite opposition from the prosecution, which highlighted risks of evidence tampering, the Supreme Court considered his medical reports before granting temporary relief.
Judicial Safeguards
The court emphasized that the bail is purely on humanitarian grounds and is valid only until March 31, 2025. It warned that any violation of the bail conditions would result in immediate action, including revocation of bail and potential further legal consequences.
Historical Context
The 2013 case is one of the most high-profile sexual assault cases in India. It brought significant attention to the abuse of power by influential figures under the guise of spirituality. Apart from this case, Asaram is also convicted in another sexual assault case involving a Surat-based woman at his Gujarat ashram.
