Supreme Court Denies Immediate Bail To Asaram, Seeks Gujarat Government's Response

New Delhi: Self-proclaimed religious leader Asaram, who is serving life imprisonment in rape cases, has not got immediate relief from the Supreme Court. The apex court has issued a notice to the Gujarat government seeking its response, staying his sentence and refusing to grant him immediate bail. The court made it clear that at present no order is being given to suspend the sentence and a detailed hearing on the case will take place later.

Why did Asaram go to the Supreme Court?

Asaram had filed an application in the Supreme Court asking that the life sentence given by the Gujarat court be stopped and he should be granted bail till the decision on the appeal is made. It was argued on his behalf that he is old, his health is not good and it will take a lot of time for the appeal to be decided.

What did the Supreme Court say?

During the hearing, the Supreme Court asked the Gujarat government to respond to this application. But flatly refused to provide immediate relief. The court said that there is no reason to stop the punishment right now. Any further decision will be taken only after listening to all the parties.

In which cases is Asaram serving sentence?

Asaram is serving life imprisonment in two separate rape cases. In one case, a Rajasthan court held him guilty of raping a minor, while in another case, a Gujarat court convicted him of raping a woman living in an ashram. Appeals against his conviction in both cases are pending.

What relief was given earlier on health grounds?

Over the years, Asaram has been getting interim bail from various courts on the basis of health reasons. However, in recent months the courts have also clarified that medical relief does not automatically mean that the sentence is suspended. The period of interim relief was extended in many cases, but the courts took a tough stance on regular bail.

What will happen next now?

After the reply of Gujarat government, the Supreme Court will hear the matter next. The court will then decide whether any relief can be granted on the demand for suspension of sentence and grant of bail. At present, Asaram not getting immediate bail is being considered as a major setback to his legal battle.