Supreme Court Cautious on Asaram's Medical Bail, Seeks Rajasthan's Response
The Supreme Court on Friday expressed caution while hearing the interim bail plea of Asaram, who is serving a life sentence for the rape of a minor, on medical grounds. The Court asked the Rajasthan government to provide proper instructions regarding his health condition.
A bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and P.B. Varale observed, "We don't want any untoward thing to happen," while addressing Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who represented the state.
Mehta informed the Court that AIIMS had recommended lifestyle changes for Asaram and that the state would file an affidavit by July 20. He noted that Asaram had some gastro-intestinal bleeding, which appeared temporary, and that he was on medication.
Asaram's counsel argued that he was a high-risk patient. However, Mehta pointed out that three months ago, Asaram had visited Ayodhya and Kashi Vishwanath and walked without assistance.
The Supreme Court posted the matter for further hearing on July 21.
Asaram was convicted on April 25, 2018, for sexually assaulting a minor student at his ashram and was sentenced to life imprisonment under multiple provisions of the Indian Penal Code, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Juvenile Justice Act. The Rajasthan High Court upheld his conviction and life sentence on May 27, 2026, though it acquitted him of some charges including gangrape and penetrative sexual assault under POCSO.
The apex court had earlier sought the state's response on Asaram's appeal against the high court's order, and directed that his medical treatment continue.
The Court also granted him liberty to make an urgent mention if his condition deteriorates.
