Supreme Court Grants Interim Bail to Asaram Bapu
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court granted interim bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu till March 31, 2025, citing medical reasons. Asaram, who is serving life sentences in two separate rape cases, will need similar relief in a Rajasthan case to remain out of jail.
A bench led by Justice MM Sundresh noted that Asaram is in critical health. The court considered his plea purely on medical grounds without evaluating the merits of the charges against him.
The court ordered his release with several conditions. He cannot meet large gatherings of followers, tamper with evidence, or move without a three-member police escort. Justice Sundresh stated, “His health is deteriorating. Whatever the crime, the convict’s health must be addressed by the state and court.”
The Gujarat government, represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, raised concerns about witness safety and requested armed police to monitor Asaram round the clock. The government noted that witnesses have been killed in the past and claimed Asaram refused treatment for his heart ailment at state hospitals.
Asaram’s lawyer, Senior Advocate Devadatt Kamat, argued that his client’s condition is critical, with a 99% heart blockage and a history of heart attacks. Kamat opposed the constant police presence, fearing interference in his treatment choices.
The court clarified that police must not interfere with his treatment or meetings with authorized individuals. However, it restricted Asaram from meeting followers, emphasizing that large gatherings at hospitals could jeopardize his safety.
Asaram also faces a life sentence in a Rajasthan case for raping a minor in 2013 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO). In January 2024, the Supreme Court rejected his plea to suspend his sentence in that case, but he is expected to use this bail order to seek similar relief.
The bench reiterated that the restrictions aim to balance Asaram’s health concerns with public safety and legal accountability.
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