SC Issues Notice To Gujarat Govt On Asaram Bapu's Plea Seeking Suspension Of Sentence In Rape Case

The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Gujarat government regarding Asaram Bapu's plea. Asaram, a self-proclaimed godman, is seeking a suspension of his life imprisonment sentence in a rape case.

The bench, comprising Justices MM Sundresh and Aravind Kumar, has requested the government's response within three weeks. They will only consider medical reasons for his interim release.

Asaram's counsel argued that he suffers from severe medical issues and needs temporary release. "He has multiple blockages. Doctors advise, in winter, he should be temperature controlled room or else he will perish," the counsel stated. However, the bench noted that Asaram previously declined treatment at certain hospitals.

Legal Proceedings and Conviction

In January 2023, a sessions court in Gandhinagar convicted Asaram under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The conviction was related to the 2013 rape of a female disciple at an ashram in Surat. Following this verdict, Asaram appealed to the Gujarat High Court.

The Gujarat High Court heard Asaram's appeal against the trial court's decision in August. However, it refused to suspend his life imprisonment sentence. Consequently, Asaram approached the Supreme Court for relief from incarceration.

Medical Concerns Highlighted

The Supreme Court emphasized that its consideration would be limited to medical grounds for interim release. The bench remarked, "We will issue notice, but we will consider only on medical conditions." This statement underscores the court's focus on health-related factors in deciding Asaram's plea.

Asaram's legal team highlighted his health issues during the proceedings. They stressed that his condition necessitates specific care during winter months. Despite these claims, earlier refusals of treatment by Asaram were noted by the court.