Supreme Court Issues Notice to Rajasthan Government on Asaram's Plea
The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought a response from the Rajasthan government on a petition filed by self-styled godman Asaram, challenging the Rajasthan High Court's order that upheld his conviction and life sentence in the 2013 rape case of a minor. A bench comprising Justices MM Sundresh and Sheel Nagu issued a notice to the state government, granting it two weeks to file its reply.
Court's Oral Observations on Bail
During the hearing, the bench orally remarked, "We are not granting bail now. Subject to hearing the state we will consider if there is grave necessity to grant bail like in condition where his life is in danger." This indicates that the court is not inclined to release Asaram immediately but will consider exceptional circumstances if they arise.
Background of the Case
Asaram was convicted on April 25, 2018, for sexually assaulting a minor student at his ashram in Jodhpur. He was sentenced to life imprisonment under multiple provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act. The Rajasthan High Court, on May 27, upheld his conviction but acquitted him of charges related to gang-rape and penetrative sexual assault on a child under the IPC and POCSO Act.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
The Supreme Court's notice requires the Rajasthan government to submit its response within two weeks. The case will be heard further after the state's reply is filed. Asaram's legal team has argued that the high court's judgment was flawed and that he deserves bail on medical grounds, citing his advanced age and health issues.
