Is Asaram's Interim Bail Extended Again Till July 9?
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Synopsis
Asaram's interim bail has been extended by the Rajasthan High Court until July 9 due to medical issues. This decision allows him to seek treatment while facing serious sexual assault convictions. The court must now consider the implications of repeated bail extensions.
Key Takeaways
- Asaram's bail has been extended until July 9.
- Medical grounds cited include prostate and heart issues.
- Asaram is currently serving life sentences for sexual assault.
- Concerns have been raised about his hospital visits.
- The Supreme Court has commented on the need to limit bail extensions.
Jaipur, July 1 (NationPress) The self-proclaimed godman and convicted sexual assaulter Asaram has once more received a reprieve from the judiciary, as the Rajasthan High Court has extended his interim bail until July 9 due to medical reasons. This ruling was delivered by the division bench comprising Justice Dinesh Mehta and Justice Vineet Mathur. Previously, the Gujarat High Court had also granted him interim bail until July 7. His earlier bail period, which was allowed for health-related issues, lapsed on June 30, prompting him to seek an extension.
Medical reports presented in court indicate that Asaram, who is currently serving a life sentence for two separate sexual assault convictions, is experiencing prostate complications and has a 90% blockage in two of his heart arteries. He is receiving treatment through ayurvedic and naturopathy methods. During this interim bail period, Asaram had a reunion with his son Narayan Sai after 11 years. Sai made the journey to Jodhpur to meet Asaram at the Pal Ashram, where he is residing for his medical care.
In the first instance, Asaram was detained in 2013 in Jodhpur for the rape of a minor girl, leading to a life sentence. In the second instance, a woman from Surat accused him of repeatedly assaulting her at the Gandhinagar Ashram in Gujarat, resulting in a life conviction in January 2023.
Asaram's attorney informed the court that he has yet to obtain a certificate from the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) affirming his age beyond 70 years and his terminal condition. The lawyer argued that it took an additional 10 days to process the bail after the last court order, meaning he had less time outside of prison.
The opposing counsel questioned Asaram's frequent transfers between hospitals for treatment, implying that he might be attempting to evade incarceration by any means necessary. The lawyer noted that Jodhpur has excellent ayurvedic facilities and an AIIMS where treatment could be administered.
Nevertheless, the Gujarat High Court, while granting interim bail, emphasized that the Supreme Court has recently stated that the continual extension of temporary bail should be curtailed, indicating that a final decision may be reached in the upcoming hearing.
Point of View
It is vital to approach the ongoing legal saga surrounding Asaram with a balanced perspective. The extension of his interim bail raises questions about judicial leniency and the implications for victims of sexual assault. While medical conditions should be acknowledged, the court's role in ensuring that justice is served remains paramount. The discussions around this case highlight the complexities of the legal system, and it is crucial to uphold the tenets of fairness and accountability.
NationPress
01/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Asaram's bail extended?
Asaram's bail was extended on medical grounds, as he is reportedly suffering from severe health issues.
What are the charges against Asaram?
Asaram has been convicted in two separate sexual assault cases and is serving life imprisonment.
Who decided to extend Asaram's bail?
The decision was made by the Rajasthan High Court's division bench of Justice Dinesh Mehta and Justice Vineet Mathur.
How has Asaram's health been described?
Asaram's health issues include prostate problems and significant blockage in heart arteries.
What has been the reaction from opposing counsel?
The opposing counsel has raised concerns about Asaram's frequent hospital visits, suggesting they are a strategy to avoid serving his sentence.
