Rajasthan High Court confirms godman Asaram’s life sentence, drops gangrape charge
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The Rajasthan High Court has upheld the life sentence of self-styled godman Asaram for the 2013 rape of a minor, while acquitting him of gang-rape charges. Asaram, currently 86, is seeking interim bail in the Supreme Court on medical grounds, with proceedings ongoing.
Legal Developments in the Case of Asaram
On May 27, 2026, the Rajasthan High Court reached a significant verdict concerning the self-styled godman Asaram, confirming his life sentence for the 2013 rape of a teenage girl at his ashram in Manai, near Jodhpur. The Division Bench, consisting of Justices Arun Monga and Yogendra Kumar Purohit, presided over the appeal, ultimately deciding to uphold the conviction while simultaneously acquitting the accused of additional charges related to gang rape and gang penetrative sexual assault under the Indian Penal Code and the POCSO Act.
Judicial Directives and Procedural Context
Following the confirmation of the life sentence, the High Court directed Asaram to surrender to the Jodhpur Central Jail. At the time of the ruling, the 86-year-old was out on temporary bail, which had been extended on medical grounds. The transition from judicial custody to the legal finality of a life sentence represents a pivotal moment in a case that has spanned over a decade, highlighting the complexities of handling high-profile cases involving influential religious figures within the Indian judicial system.
The Supreme Court Intervention
Following the High Court’s decision, the legal battle shifted to the Supreme Court of India. On July 17, 2026, a bench comprising Justices M.M. Sundresh and P.B. Varale heard an application for interim bail filed by Asaram, citing his advanced age and deteriorating health. The apex court expressed a cautious stance, stating, "We don't want any untoward thing to happen," and requested the Rajasthan government to provide a comprehensive assessment of his medical condition.
Medical Arguments and State Response
During the Supreme Court proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Rajasthan government, presented findings from AIIMS suggesting that the octogenarian’s health concerns could be managed through lifestyle adjustments rather than requiring immediate release. This medical evaluation serves as a critical point of contention, as the defense continues to leverage his age and health status to argue for leniency, while the state maintains the necessity of his continued incarceration.
Broader Implications and Future Trends
This case underscores the enduring challenges of balancing humanitarian considerations for elderly inmates with the gravity of convictions involving sexual violence against minors. The ongoing proceedings in the Supreme Court, now posted for July 21, reflect the judiciary's attempt to navigate public interest, legal procedure, and the medical realities of long-term prisoners. As this case continues to unfold, it remains a focal point for discussions regarding the enforcement of the POCSO Act and the limits of medical bail in high-stakes criminal litigation.
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