The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday issued a notice to the Rajasthan Government on a petition filed by self-styled godman Asaram Bapu challenging a Rajasthan High Court judgment that upheld his conviction and life imprisonment in a 2013 rape case.
However, the apex court declined to suspend his sentence at this stage and made it clear that any consideration for interim relief or bail would depend on the emergence of a serious medical emergency.
Supreme Court Refuses to Suspend Asaram Bapu’s Sentence
A vacation bench comprising Justice M. M. Sundresh and Justice Sheel Nagu heard the matter and directed that the medical facilities currently being provided to Asaram in prison should continue.
The bench observed that suspension of sentence would not be considered merely on account of age or routine health issues.
“We are not considering suspension of sentence. If there is grave urgency, such as danger to life, that is the only factor we will consider,” the bench remarked during the hearing.
The judges also allowed the petitioner to seek urgent listing of the matter in the future if his health condition significantly worsens.
Asaram’s Counsel Cites Age and Health Concerns
Senior Advocate Dama Seshadri Naidu, appearing for Asaram, argued that the 80-plus-year-old spiritual leader is suffering from multiple medical conditions and requires special consideration.
The defence further contended that Asaram had been subjected to a “social media trial” over the years.
Opposing the plea, counsel representing the victim challenged these submissions and highlighted the seriousness of the allegations, noting that minor victims were also involved in the case.
Meanwhile, the State’s counsel informed the court that Asaram had been admitted to a hospital on June 2 for medical evaluation and that doctors found no life-threatening health condition.
Supreme Court Issues Notice on Bail and Sentence Suspension Plea
While refusing immediate relief, the Supreme Court issued notice to the Rajasthan Government on Asaram’s application seeking suspension of sentence and bail.
The matter is expected to be heard further after the State files its response.
Background: 2013 Rape Case Against Asaram Bapu
The case relates to allegations that Asaram sexually assaulted a woman at his ashram in 2013.
In April 2018, a Special POCSO Court in Jodhpur convicted him and sentenced him to life imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life. The conviction included several offences under the Indian Penal Code, including rape, human trafficking, wrongful confinement, criminal intimidation and related charges.
He was also convicted under provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
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Rajasthan High Court Verdict
Earlier, the Rajasthan High Court upheld Asaram’s conviction on major IPC offences, including rape, while setting aside certain charges such as gang rape and criminal conspiracy.
The High Court also overturned the POCSO convictions and acquitted co-accused Sharad and Shilpi, who had previously been sentenced to 20 years in prison for allegedly facilitating the victim’s meeting with Asaram.
What Happens Next?
The Supreme Court will now examine Asaram’s challenge to the Rajasthan High Court verdict after receiving the State government’s response. For the time being, his life sentence remains in force, and the court has limited any potential relief to circumstances involving a serious threat to his health.
BY JESSICA SABHARWAL
