The Supreme Court has denied the interim bail request from self-proclaimed spiritual leader Asaram, who is currently serving a life sentence for the sexual assault of a minor in 2013. The Court’s decision was announced on Thursday, with Justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale presiding over the matter. The bench held the plea for interim bail in abeyance, allowing Asaram the option to refile should his health deteriorate.

Health Claims and Legal Arguments

During the court proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated that Asaram had not been transparent about his legal situation, notably regarding an application for parole that had been submitted by his legal counsel. Asaram’s defence argued that the parole request was filed earlier and not specifically for health reasons.

The Justices had previously received information from experts at AIIMS, indicating that while Asaram was not in need of hospitalisation, he did require constant medical support. On July 21, the Supreme Court instructed AIIMS to organise a medical board to evaluate Asaram’s current health condition, further complicating the bail application process.

In a prior ruling, the Rajasthan High Court granted Asaram a 20-day parole on account of the state government’s inability to adequately justify its rejection of his previous plea for release. The High Court considered his extended time in custody and his behaviour during past temporary releases.

Conviction Upheld with Specific Clauses

The Rajasthan High Court reaffirmed Asaram’s conviction and life sentence in the case on May 27, 2026, following a thorough review of his legal standing. Although the High Court acquitted him of charges related to gang rape and penetrative sexual assault under the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, it maintained his conviction under IPC Section 376(2)(F) concerning the rape of the minor.

Additionally, the High Court upheld convictions related to several other provisions of the IPC, including Sections 342, 370(4), 506, 509, and 354(A), as well as relevant sections of the POCSO Act and the Juvenile Justice Act. Asaram was initially found guilty on April 25, 2018, for the sexual assault of a minor student at his ashram, resulting in life imprisonment under various legal statutes.

The Supreme Court has also sought explanations from the Rajasthan government regarding Asaram’s challenges to the High Court ruling. This indicates that the legal process surrounding Asaram’s case remains ongoing, with the Supreme Court maintaining a vigilant stance on the developments related to his health and legal status.

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