The Rajasthan High Court has granted an extension of interim bail to Asaram Bapu, a self-proclaimed godman currently serving a life sentence for rape, until July 7, 2026. This decision was made during a recent hearing by a Division Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Yogendra Kumar Purohit. The court's ruling was primarily based on medical grounds, acknowledging the defendant's ongoing health issues.
Asaram, who is 86 years old, has been in custody since August 2013 after being convicted of raping a minor at his Jodhpur ashram. His legal team argued that his medical treatment is incomplete and that he requires further medical supervision. During the proceedings, Senior Advocate Devadatt Kamat represented Asaram via video conferencing, while other advocates appeared in person.
- Interim bail extended until July 7 — allowing Asaram to continue receiving necessary medical treatment.
- Plea for suspension of sentence pending — court has reserved its verdict following arguments concluded on April 20.
- Previous convictions in separate cases — Asaram has faced multiple life sentences for serious crimes.
The court has clarified that the interim bail will remain valid until the pronouncement of the reserved verdict on Asaram's plea for suspension of his sentence, which could occur before the July date. If the court rules on the suspension plea prior to the July 7 deadline, the interim bail will be governed by that decision.
Asaram's legal team has repeatedly highlighted his deteriorating health as a basis for seeking bail. The High Court had previously granted him interim bail on similar medical grounds, which has since been extended periodically. Asaram's case has drawn significant public interest and scrutiny, particularly given the serious nature of the charges against him and the implications of his continued legal battles.
