Rajasthan High Court Dismisses Petition on Spiritual Leader's Care, Imposes ₹5 Lakh Cost
The Rajasthan High Court's principal seat in Jodhpur has dismissed a criminal petition concerning the condition and treatment of an 81-year-old spiritual leader, Swami Ji, labeling the plea as "misconceived and lacking merit." In a significant ruling on Wednesday, the court imposed a substantial cost of ₹5 lakh on the petitioner, the NGO We The People Sansthan.
Petition Allegations and Court's Response
The petition, filed by the NGO, raised serious allegations regarding Swami Ji's welfare in his ashram. It claimed that the spiritual leader was being drugged and provided with improper care, sparking concerns over his health and safety. Additionally, the petition highlighted alleged irregularities involving followers, including internal disputes and complaints, with foreign disciples and associates reportedly involved. Based on these allegations, FIRs had been registered at Shivpura and Kotwali police stations in Pali.
Medical Board Findings and Court's Assessment
In response to the petition, the court had earlier constituted a medical board to conduct a thorough examination of Swami Ji's condition. The board's report, which played a pivotal role in the court's decision, found "no evidence of drugging" and concluded that Swami Ji was suffering from age-related ailments. The court recorded that he was receiving proper medical treatment, with no abnormal neurological or psychological findings, except for expressive aphasia with cognitive dysfunction.
Justice Munnuri Laxman, who presided over the case, stated that the medical board's findings prima facie demolished the petitioner's claims. On the allegation of an improper police investigation, the court held that the petitioner-organisation was not a direct complainant and therefore had "no locus standi to interfere."
Financial Irregularities and Final Ruling
The court also scrutinized allegations of financial irregularities within the ashram but found "no material on record to support such claims." After considering all arguments and the comprehensive medical report, Justice Laxman dismissed the petition in its entirety.
The court directed that the imposed cost of ₹5 lakh be paid to the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority in Jodhpur, emphasizing the need for accountability in legal proceedings. This ruling underscores the judiciary's commitment to evidence-based decisions and discourages frivolous litigation that can strain legal resources.
